Pilsen Restaurant Targeted in Early Morning Smash-and-Grab; ATM Stolen

CHICAGO, IL — In the early morning hours of April 10, 2026, a popular restaurant in Chicago's historic Pilsen neighborhood fell victim to a coordinated smash-and-grab burglary. The perpetrators shattered the establishment's storefront to gain entry and quickly made off with an ATM located inside, highlighting a persistent trend of commercial burglaries across the city.

According to Chicago police and surveillance footage, the incident occurred at approximately 4:30 a.m. at El Pollo Cris Cris, a local dining spot situated at the intersection of Blue Island Avenue and Hoyne Street. The security video captures a swift, chaotic sequence of events where the suspects shattered the front glass doors to create an entry point, ignoring the building's active alarm system.

Once inside the restaurant, the burglars split up to maximize their efficiency in a targeted, high-speed robbery. While one suspect focused on ripping the automated teller machine (ATM) from its floor bolts, another targeted the restaurant's cash register. Within under three minutes, the group managed to carry the heavy ATM out of the shattered entrance, loading it into a waiting getaway vehicle before fleeing the scene at a high rate of speed.

No injuries were reported, as the restaurant was closed to customers and staff during the early morning heist. The Chicago Police Department's Area Four detectives are currently leading the investigation. Detectives are reviewing nearby street cameras and license plate readers in hopes of identifying the getaway vehicle. Authorities are urging local business owners to remain vigilant and asking anyone with information about the incident or the suspects involved to contact the department or submit an anonymous tip online.