Chinatown and Lakeview Commercial Outlets Targeted in Coordinated ATM Theft Spree

CHICAGO — A series of smash-and-grab commercial burglaries disrupted businesses across several Chicago neighborhoods early Saturday. Investigators believe an organized crew is responsible for targeting automated teller machines (ATMs) in Chinatown and Lakeview, using forced entry techniques to access cash boxes.

The first of these incidents was reported in the Chinatown area, where burglars shattered the glass storefront of a local gas station convenience store. Once inside, the perpetrators quickly breached the ATM, removing an undisclosed sum of money before fleeing. Shortly thereafter, a similar break-in occurred at a popular bar in the Lakeview neighborhood on the city's North Side. In that incident, the front door was kicked in, and the interior ATM was vandalized and emptied.

Law enforcement officials are investigating whether these incidents are linked to another burglary at O'Neil's on Wells in the downtown area. Business owners are being urged to increase security measures and ensure their surveillance systems are fully operational.

Police have not yet released descriptions of the suspects or the getaway vehicles. Anyone with information regarding these break-ins is encouraged to contact Chicago Police Area Detectives.