Smoke Shops in Boston, Cambridge, and Somerville Targeted in Overnight Theft Spree

CAMBRIDGE, MA — Police are investigating a series of coordinated overnight break-ins targeting multiple smoke shops across Boston, Cambridge, and Somerville. The incidents, which occurred overnight on March 25, 2025, appear to be the work of an organized crew of thieves.

According to authorities, the suspects utilized similar tactics in each location, smashing through glass entry doors or windows to gain quick entry. Once inside, the thieves focused on high-value products, including specialty tobacco items, vaping devices, and cash registers, before fleeing in a getaway vehicle. The speed of the burglaries suggests the perpetrators had pre-selected their targets.

Detectives from the Cambridge Police Department are collaborating with their counterparts in Boston and Somerville to analyze surveillance footage and share information. Investigators believe that the same group of individuals is responsible for all the targeted robberies due to the identical modus operandi and close proximity of the businesses.

“We are seeing a pattern of commercial burglaries targeting specific niche retail outlets,” a spokesperson for the local police department noted. “We are pooling resources across departments to track the suspects and increase visibility around these types of establishments during late-night hours.”

Business owners in the area are urged to review their security systems, ensure surveillance cameras are operational, and avoid leaving large amounts of cash on the premises overnight.