CHICAGO – Small business owners in Third Lake, Illinois, are dealing with the aftermath of an overnight burglary spree that left several shops damaged and owners frustrated. Surveillance footage captured masked suspects smashing their way into a European food and gift shop early Saturday morning, a crime that has shaken the quiet community.
Multiple Businesses Targeted in Early Morning Break-Ins
ABC7 Chicago, several businesses in the same area of Third Lake were hit in the early hours of the morning. The spree was swift and destructive, with owners receiving calls from police alerting them to the break-ins.
For Linas Tomaitis, owner of European Food & Gifts, the damage was a harsh setback for a store that has been open for only about a year and a half.
“It’s very frustrating being a small business in the area, everything counts,” Tomaitis said. “We’re hardworking people working lots of hours, and have something like that, it’s just frustrating and sad.”
Community Shocked by Sudden Crime Wave
Third Lake is known for being a quiet, low-crime community. Tomaitis admitted that crime was not something he usually worried about.
“Absolutely a quiet nice town, and you don’t think about it. We feel very safe,” he said.
Despite the loss, Tomaitis found a small moment of humor in the situation when he learned what the burglars took: ice cream, cash, and the cash register itself.
Police Investigation Ongoing
Local police are continuing their investigation, and no arrests have been made at this time. The shop owners hope the surveillance video will help lead to the suspects. Authorities are also reminding other business owners to review their security measures in light of the incidents.
Have you seen suspicious activity in the Third Lake area? Share your tips or experiences in the comments below and help keep our community safe. For more local news and updates, visit ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com.
