String of Burglaries Targeting Independence Businesses
Kansas City, Mo. (KCTV) – Police are investigating a series of burglaries in Independence, where thieves have broken through cinderblock walls to access at least four businesses.
The Independence Police Department has confirmed a connection between these break-ins. Investigators reported that burglars used sledgehammers to create entry holes measuring just over two feet wide.
In a recent incident on Tuesday morning, thieves targeted Rapid Fire Arcade. They smashed through approximately 10 inches of brick and concrete, maneuvering past tight shelving to gain entry. Owner Gary Wray described the hole as about 2 feet 3 inches by 1 foot 5 inches, expressing disbelief that anyone could fit through it. The culprits escaped with tools and cash.
Shoe Palace was involved in two separate incidents in September. First, burglars accessed the store by breaking into neighboring Stephanie’s Bridal Boutique and then creating a hole in the shared wall. Just 20 days later, they breached an exterior wall again, leaving a hole measuring 2 feet 6 inches by 1 foot 8 inches, and stealing approximately $7,000 worth of merchandise.
Additionally, on September 16, Old School Collectibles was targeted, where thieves removed four cinderblocks to steal Pokémon cards, leaving behind a sledgehammer. Surveillance footage captured suspects who appeared to be over 6 feet tall.
Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact the Independence Police Department.
