ATM Theft Spree Escalates: Two More Machines Stolen from Chicago Businesses

CHICAGO — A targeted crime spree focusing on automated teller machines (ATMs) shows no signs of slowing down, as two more devices were ripped from Chicago businesses early Friday morning. The latest incidents mark the sixth time an ATM has been stolen from local premises in just one week.

According to law enforcement, organized burglary crews have been operating across various neighborhoods in the city, using rapid-entry tactics to bypass store security. Once inside, the perpetrators focus exclusively on the standalone ATMs located near the entrances of convenience stores, gas stations, and other small retail shops, physical removing the heavy machines before police can arrive on the scene.

Business owners are expressing growing concern over the financial toll, which includes not only the lost cash and machinery but also the extensive structural damage caused to their storefront doors and windows. Police are investigating whether a single coordinated crew is behind the entire series of thefts. Enhanced patrols and security advisories have been issued to high-risk retail sectors throughout Chicago as the investigation continues.