CHICAGO (WLS) — At least seven businesses on the Northwest Side were robbed in the early hours of July 4th, a day when most establishments were closed for the holiday. Among the victims was an ice cream shop, which experienced its second break-in, with criminals caught on surveillance cameras.
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Chicago police reported that between midnight and 6 a.m., three men wreaked havoc on the city’s northwest side. The suspects were seen on surveillance video around 4 a.m., breaking into a chocolate store near Devon Avenue and Minnehaha Street.
A String of Robberies
The thieves, dressed in black, were caught on camera stealing the cash register from the front counter and searching the store and back room for cash. They also attempted to break into the ATM.
“Unfortunately, it’s in the back of your mind that something might happen,” said Blake Baum, owner of Cities Edge.
Impact on Local Businesses
The suspects then moved across the street and broke into the City’s Edge bar and restaurant. “With everything going on in the news right now, I immediately knew what had happened. So it’s a shame,” City’s Edge owner Blake Baum said. While the thieves stole some money, the damage they left behind will cost even more. “We are open today, and we hope to be able to sell enough food and alcohol to cover our door costs and all the damage,” Baum added.
Earlier in their heist, the same crew broke into the Breakfast House restaurant near Belmont Avenue and Keating Avenue, smashing a side glass door. According to Chicago police, this was their method of entry in every robbery, using a hammer or iron bar to break down doors and then stealing cash, safes, and electronics once inside.
See also: Logan Square liquor store robbed 5 times in a week, owner says
Community Reaction
Business owners expressed their concerns about the recent crime wave. “Unfortunately, you imagine that something might happen, but then again, I hope no one is here when it happens,” Baum said. “We can replace anything. Our people are definitely more important.”
Police Investigation
Chicago police are still searching for the suspects, who are believed to be between 16 and 25 years old. Authorities urge anyone with information to contact the police.
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