Chicago residents and business owners are on high alert as the Chicago Police Department issued a community warning for the 1st, 14th, and 19th districts following a series of commercial burglaries. The crime spree, involving multiple offenders breaking into businesses through their front displays and windows, has sparked concerns among locals in the Chicago Loop, Logan Square, and Lakeview neighborhoods. The offending group, described as five African American males with obscured faces, has been linked to all incidents, noted for their preference for a gray, late model, Kia Forte sedan as they make their escape.
The Chicago Police’s Official website reported the timeline of the burglaries beginning on January 19, 2025, with the first break-in occurring at 1:43 a.m. on the 0-100 block of S. State St, followed by the 2900 block of N. Sheffield Ave assault at 2:03 a.m., the 200 block of W. Van Buren St at 2:26 a.m., and finally the 3400 block of W. Fullerton Ave at 3:06 a.m.
With the offenders still at large, the Chicago Police Department has highlighted ways that business owners and residents can protect themselves and their properties. These measures include maintaining well-lit perimeters, immediately repairing any damaged windows or locks, and installing video surveillance if possible. For businesses already victim to the recent incidents, authorities emphasize that preserving the crime scene untouched is critical, “If you are a victim do not touch anything, call police immediately,” and they encourage witnesses to provide as much information as they can to aid the investigation…