Suspect uses hammer in West Loop, Near West Side business break-ins: police

May 28, 2026 - 01:09

Chicago police have issued a community alert following a string of commercial burglaries in the West Loop and Near West Side neighborhoods. Authorities say a single suspect has been using a hammer to smash his way into businesses during the overnight hours.

The burglaries have occurred over the past several weeks, with the suspect targeting stores and offices after hours. According to police reports, the individual approaches a business, typically a retail shop or restaurant, and uses a hammer to break a glass door or window. Once inside, he steals cash registers, electronics, and other valuables before fleeing the scene.

Police have not released a detailed description of the suspect, but they note he is believed to be a male who operates alone. The incidents have been concentrated in areas near the intersection of West Madison Street and South Ashland Avenue, as well as along the West Loop's busy commercial corridors.

Business owners in the affected areas are advised to secure their storefronts with reinforced glass or metal grates, install motion-activated lighting, and maintain working surveillance cameras. Police are also urging anyone who sees suspicious activity, especially a person carrying a hammer late at night, to call 911 immediately.

No arrests have been made as of this report. The investigation remains ongoing.