Chicago police investigate string of smash-and-grab burglaries on Northwest Side
CHICAGO - Chicago police are looking to identify a group of masked individuals responsible for a string of business burglaries on the city’s Northwest Side.
The suspects targeted multiple locations in the early hours of Jan. 23, smashing windows and stealing cash register drawers before fleeing in a silver Kia Optima.
What we know:
Authorities say the break-ins followed a pattern, with three to four suspects forcing their way into businesses by shattering windows or front glass doors.
The first incidents occurred within minutes of each other on the 7000 block of West Higgins Avenue in the Union Ridge neighborhood. The group then struck several businesses on the 7200 block of North Harlem Avenue in Edison Park before hitting another location on the 5400 block of West Devon Avenue in Forest Glen around 2:30 a.m.
Among the businesses burglarized was Trio’s Pizza, a local favorite that reopened just five months ago. Surveillance footage captured the suspects using a large rock to break the glass door.
"They trashed the lobby, stole the register, and then hit the other businesses," said owner Aleks Damnjanovic.
This is the second time Trio’s Pizza has been burglarized in recent months. The business was previously targeted in November, just three months after reopening. This time, the thieves only managed to steal spare change.
"We even had a sign warning that there was no cash in the register," said co-owner Tuyen Damnjanovic.
What we don't know:
Police have not released further details about the suspects beyond their descriptions as three to four males wearing dark clothing, masks, and gloves.
What's next:
Chicago police are asking anyone with information to contact Area Five detectives at 312-746-7394 or submit an anonymous tip at CPDTIP.com.
The Source: The information in this article was provided by the Chicago Police Department and the owners of Trio's Pizza.