CHICAGO — A 27-year-old man was shot in the back early Friday morning after he confronted a group of suspected car burglars breaking into his vehicle in the South Loop, marking the third shooting tied to an auto break-in in the city this week.
Gunfire Erupts After Attempted Vehicle Theft
Chicago police reported the incident occurred at approximately 3:13 a.m. in the 2000 block of South Wabash. The victim had stepped outside to confront four individuals seen breaking into his car when at least two of the suspects pulled out firearms and opened fire.
Over 30 rounds were fired, striking the victim in the back as he attempted to flee toward his home. One of the bullets also shattered a nearby storefront’s glass, police confirmed.
The man was transported to Northwestern Memorial Hospital, where he was reported in good condition. The suspects fled the scene and remain at large.
A Disturbing Pattern: Third Shooting This Week
This incident is part of an alarming surge in violent auto burglary confrontations across Chicago. In two other recent cases:
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A 57-year-old man was shot in the leg in Portage Park on Saturday night after confronting a burglar.
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On Monday, a contractor in West Rogers Park was shot at but not injured while trying to stop thieves stealing tools from his work truck.
These are just the latest examples of how property crimes are turning violent, especially when victims attempt to intervene.
Ongoing Trend of Armed Car Burglars
Similar incidents involving concealed carry holders or off-duty law enforcement have also turned deadly or resulted in injuries:
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In March, a concealed carry holder shot a 21-year-old during a car break-in on the Far South Side.
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In April, a shootout in South Shore left a victim shot in the back and buttocks.
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Another Pilsen incident involved a 66-year-old man shot in the leg by burglars.
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An off-duty CPD officer exchanged gunfire with burglars in West Lawn, suffering a minor ear injury.
In most of these cases, suspects fled before police could make arrests.
Citywide Concern Over Rising Risk
As these cases mount, public concern is growing over armed burglary crews operating across city neighborhoods — from the South Loop to Northwest and West Side work zones. Surveillance footage circulating on social media has shown masked groups using force and weapons, even in broad daylight.
While Chicago police continue investigations, they’ve offered no immediate updates on arrests in this recent South Loop incident.
What do you think?
Have you or someone in your neighborhood experienced auto theft or burglary lately? How do you think the city should address this growing issue?
Join the conversation in the comments on ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com.
