Crime Alert: Chicago Police Search for Suspect in North Side Laundromat Burglary Spree

 

CHICAGO, IL — Chicago police are warning residents after a recent string of laundromat burglaries on the city’s North Side, urging business owners and the public to stay vigilant as authorities intensify their search for the suspect responsible.

According to a statement released Saturday, officers have linked a series of break-ins at multiple laundromat locations over the past two weeks, with the most recent incident reported just days ago in the Lakeview neighborhood. Investigators believe the same individual is connected to at least five burglaries stretching from Uptown to Lincoln Square.

Police describe the suspect as a male, approximately 5’10” with a medium build, often seen wearing dark clothing and a baseball cap. Surveillance footage from one of the affected laundromats shows the individual entering the premises after hours, forcing entry through locked doors, and targeting cash boxes, change machines, and other accessible valuables.

“These incidents have caused considerable financial hardship for small business owners who are already operating under tight margins,” said Deputy Chief David Kowalski of the Chicago Police Department’s Area Three. “We are deploying additional resources to these neighborhoods and are working closely with local businesses to provide guidance on enhanced security measures.”

Business owners say the thefts often occur late at night or in the early morning hours when the facilities are unattended. In some cases, the suspect used tools to pry open locked machines, causing thousands of dollars in damage beyond the value of the cash stolen.

“It’s devastating,” said Carla Ramirez, owner of a family-run laundromat in Edgewater that was hit last week. “We’ve been here for 15 years and never experienced anything like this. It’s not just the money — it’s the cost to repair everything that really hurts.”

In response, police have advised laundromat operators and other late-hour businesses to:

• Reinforce locks and security systems.
• Empty cash machines nightly if possible.
• Install visible security cameras and improved lighting.
• Report any suspicious behavior immediately.

Community groups and local aldermen are also stepping up, encouraging residents to be extra cautious and to share any tips that might assist investigators.

“This is not just about stolen quarters — it’s about protecting our neighborhoods and making sure people feel safe operating small businesses,” said Alderman Sophia King (4th Ward).

Police are offering a cash reward for information leading to an arrest. Residents who may have information, surveillance video, or who notice suspicious activity around laundromats are encouraged to contact Area Three detectives at (312) 744-8263 or submit an anonymous tip via CPD’s online tip portal.

Authorities stress that the investigation remains active and that further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.