Burglars hit 5 Chicago businesses in 3-hour spree

Police issue alert after break-ins across South and Southwest sides

Apr. 11, 2026 at 12:03pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a shattered glass door lock mechanism, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conceptually illustrating the aftermath of a commercial burglary.A recent wave of targeted commercial break-ins exposes the vulnerability of small businesses in Chicago's neighborhoods.Chicago Today

Police in Chicago have issued a warning about a series of business burglaries that occurred across the city's South and Southwest sides within a span of less than three hours on Thursday morning. Five separate break-ins were reported, with the suspects ransacking the businesses and taking cash and an ATM machine.

Why it matters

These types of coordinated, rapid-fire commercial burglaries can have a significant impact on small businesses, causing property damage, financial losses, and disruptions to operations. The incidents also raise concerns about public safety and the ability of law enforcement to respond quickly to such crimes.

The details

According to police, the burglars targeted businesses in the West Lawn, Archer Heights, Gage Park, and Bridgeport neighborhoods. In each case, the suspects broke the front glass door to gain entry and then ransacked the businesses, stealing cash and an ATM machine. The break-ins occurred between 3:34 a.m. and 6:04 a.m. on Thursday, April 9th.

  • The first break-in occurred at 3:34 a.m. on April 9th in the 4300-block of West Marquette Road.
  • The second and third incidents happened at 4:54 a.m. and 5:40 a.m. on April 9th in the 2600-block of West 59th Street and the 4300-block of West 47th Street, respectively.
  • The fourth break-in took place at 5:42 a.m. on April 9th, also in the 4300-block of West 47th Street.
  • The final burglary occurred at 6:04 a.m. on April 9th in the 3700-block of South Union Avenue.

The players

Chicago Police Department

The local law enforcement agency that issued the warning about the business burglaries and is investigating the incidents.

Burglars

A group of four male suspects wearing dark clothing, a black sweater, white gym shoes, a black ski mask, and black gloves. They were last seen driving a silver SUV and a black Kia.

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What’s next

Police are continuing to investigate the incidents and are urging business owners to be vigilant and take steps to secure their properties.

The takeaway

These coordinated commercial burglaries highlight the ongoing challenges faced by small businesses in Chicago, particularly in the wake of the pandemic. The incidents underscore the need for enhanced security measures, improved law enforcement response, and community-based solutions to address the root causes of such crimes.