Uptown Businesses Hit by Burglary Spree, Police Search for Suspect

Owners describe similar break-in methods used by the unidentified suspect across multiple Uptown businesses.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 2:51am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a shattered cash register drawer against a pitch-black background, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash, conceptually representing the financial impact of a burglary on a small business.A shattered cash register drawer serves as a stark reminder of the financial toll burglaries take on small businesses in New Orleans.New Orleans Today

Three businesses in Uptown New Orleans were burglarized early Sunday morning, with the same suspect believed to be responsible for all three incidents. The break-ins resulted in property damage and financial losses for the small business owners, raising concerns about safety and security in the neighborhood.

Why it matters

The Uptown area of New Orleans has seen an increase in property crimes in recent years, with small business owners bearing the brunt of the financial and emotional toll. These latest burglaries highlight the ongoing challenges facing local merchants, who are already struggling to recover from the economic impacts of the pandemic.

The details

According to the New Orleans Police Department, the suspect was captured on surveillance video during the break-ins but has not yet been identified. At Verret's Bar, the suspect shattered the front window and took less than $200 from the cash register. A similar incident occurred at Yinzer's Amazing Cheesesteaks, where the suspect used force to try to access the register, causing damage but not taking any money. The owners of both businesses expressed concerns about the financial and emotional impact of the crimes, especially as they prepare for the busy summer season.

  • The break-ins occurred early Sunday morning.

The players

Trent Dang

The owner of Verret's Bar in Central City.

Mike Woodhall

The co-owner of Yinzer's Amazing Cheesesteaks.

New Orleans Police Department

The local law enforcement agency investigating the burglaries.

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What they’re saying

“For us, it's more about scratching at that sense of security a lot of people have.”

— Trent Dang, Owner, Verret's Bar

“Summer is about to start, and I don't know any small business that has extra cash to replace a window and a register.”

— Mike Woodhall, Co-owner, Yinzer's Amazing Cheesesteaks

What’s next

Detectives are actively investigating the incidents, and police have not yet identified the suspect. The owners hope the perpetrator is caught soon, while also calling for broader solutions to address the underlying issues contributing to the rise in property crimes in the Uptown neighborhood.

The takeaway

These burglaries underscore the ongoing challenges facing small businesses in New Orleans, particularly in areas like Uptown that have seen an increase in property crimes. As the city works to support its local merchants, addressing the root causes of these incidents, such as mental health and economic disparities, will be crucial to creating a safer and more prosperous environment for all.