Smash-and-grab thieves target store in Chicago’s Gold Coast

CHICAGO — Another high-end fashion store in the city’s Gold Coast was the target of a smash-and-grab.

The incident involving a stolen red Jeep SUV happened around 5:30 a.m. Tuesday at the Balenciaga store, located on Oak and Rush Street.

An unknown amount of people reportedly drove a Jeep through the front entrance of the store.

The thieves stole about 18 handbags, which can cost up to $10,000. Chicago police arrived to the scene within 60 seconds after the initial collision occurred.

Police were able to chase the suspects, who escaped in two waiting stolen vehicles, to the Ontario Feeder Ramp — but called off the pursuit when it got to a high-rate of speed.

Ald. Brian Hopkins tells NewsNation affiliate WGN News that detectives believe this is the work of a highly-organized theft ring.

“They chose their moment. They had an opportunity to attack because one of the police officers who was stationed on Oak Street got called away to an emergency call. And it was at that precise moment that the three vehicles attacked this particular store. So, we think this was an organized effort and believe it was a sophisticated merchandise theft ring that is operating,” Hopkins told WGN News.

No one is in custody.

In most smash-and-grab situations, the suspects will use a stolen vehicle to crash into a store, then a group of people will grab merchandise and leave the scene in a getaway car.

Balenciaga is a favorite brand of several celebrities. It sells high-end clothing and accessories, most of which cost thousands of dollars.

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