At least 2 Bronzeville businesses broken into, as Chicago police investigate flurry of burglaries

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Chicago police are investigating a pair of South Side break-ins early Friday morning.

The incidents both happened in Bronzeville just after 4:15 a.m.

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Surveillance video shows the break-in at the Sip and Savor shop at 528 E. 43rd St.

Police say no money was taken. So far, no one is in custody.

Right next-door, the Ain't She Sweet Cafe was also targeted and damaged. Both businesses are in the same strip mall at 43rd and Forestville Avenue.

In one of the crimes, the suspects left, driving west in a black sedan, CPD said.

Area One detectives are investigating.

The break-ins come after Chicago police put out an alert Thursday for nearly 20 burglaries all over the city in the last month.

The South Side businesses have been around nearly two decades.

They say they've never had an issue with crime, until now.

Ain't She Sweet Cafe was getting new front door glass after the break-in later Friday.

"It's worth nothing, just a waste of time. The cash register drawer is open. Lets you know there is nothing in there. Just break the window out for nothing," George Clay said.

In this case, an employee was inside the store.

And when the suspect realized that, he quickly ran out.

But it has become a familiar pattern for many Chicago-area small businesses.

"It's just sad. I can't really put to words just how inconvenient it is to have to come and replace glass or deal with insurance claims," said Trez Pugh, with Sip and Savor.

The Bronzeville break-ins are especially perplexing for neighborhood leaders.

"They're trying to bring something to the community, and we in the community are tearing it down," Early Walker said.

Police in south suburban Justice are investigating to determine whether the burglary early Friday of Elsie's Place, a gaming business, could be related to the Chicago crimes.

Security camera video shows the similar looking suspects who followed a similar pattern. Usually no employees are at the business. So while there is generally a lot of property damage, no employees are hurt.

"That's the biggest thing. The glass can be replaced but a person can't," Pugh said.

Several business owners say they appreciate all the support they are getting from the neighborhood.

Some are offering free coffee, ice cream or other products on Sunday afternoon.

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