Thieves Steal Electronics In Pawn Shop 'Crash-And-Grab'
CHICAGO (CBS) -- Chicago police were investigating another so-called "crash-and-grab" burglary, after thieves rammed a minivan into the front of a South Side pawn shop, and made off with electronics early Tuesday.
A gray Dodge Caravan smashed through the glass front door and security screens at EZ Pawn at 67th Street and Western Avenue shortly before 4 a.m.
The van came to a rest about 30 feet inside the store, leaving glass scattered all the way to the back wall.
Police said the occupants of the Caravan jumped out, and grabbed merchandise, including jewelry, electronics and tools. Pricier merchandise might not have been in their view or reach.
"Big TVs, and stuff, but you can't get them off the wall. It takes time to do that," said Randy Cohens, whose brother manages the store, which opened only three weeks ago.
They did take at least one television and some small cameras, "but the other stuff, all the valuables is locked up.
"That was stupid. They did all this damage for the little stuff that they can't even probably sell for 500 bucks," he added. "I want to see the dummy that really drove in there. He could have literally killed hisself."
The burglars were in and out in about two minutes. It was unclear if they had a getaway car waiting for them.
The minivan likely was stolen. Police were checking surveillance video from the area, to see if they can find clear images of the thieves.
Sergio Diaz, who said he has boarded up several businesses in recent weeks, after smash-and-grab burglaries, said the thieves often do more damage by crashing into a building, than from what they actually steal.
Tuesday's burglary at EZ Pawn was the seventh crash-and-grab heist in the Chicago area since September. However, most other "crash-and-grab" burglaries in recent weeks have targeted high-end clothing stores.
