Backlot Coffee Broken Into During Chicago Commercial Burglary Spree

CHICAGO, IL — Burglars targeted the beloved community hub Backlot Coffee during a series of early morning break-ins across Chicago on Monday, September 23, 2024. The incident has left local residents and staff shocked by the brazenness of the smash-and-grab crew.

According to police reports, the break-in occurred before dawn, mirroring the tactics used at several other restaurants and smoke shops during the same night. The intruders shattered the front window of the cafe to gain access to the interior. Once inside, they went directly to the register and checkout area, searching for cash and any easily transportable electronics before fleeing into a waiting vehicle.

Backlot Coffee is widely recognized in the neighborhood as a welcoming space for remote workers, families, and coffee enthusiasts. Following the break-in, staff worked quickly to clear the shattered glass and secure the building, ensuring the shop could continue to serve its patrons. Community support poured in online and in person as regulars rallied behind the business.

Detectives from the Chicago Police Department are reviewing surveillance tapes from Backlot Coffee and neighboring stores. Investigators believe a single organized group is responsible for the string of burglaries, and are urging anyone with information to contact police immediately.