In the Chatham neighborhood of Chicago, burglars broke into four businesses overnight, including the longstanding Soul Veg City restaurant. Security footage captured two men breaking a front window and entering the restaurant, where they stole a cash drawer that contained no money as the establishment does not keep cash on hand. They also took a couple of pieces of cake before leaving the premises in under two minutes.
Soul Veg City, which has been in operation for nearly 50 years, has faced multiple burglaries in recent years. The thieves also targeted a beauty shop and a cleaners nearby. Local Alderman William Hall expressed concern about the disturbing trend of criminal activity, labeling it an “evil inconvenience.”
Another business affected, Flowers First, experienced its first break-in in 34 years, with owner W. Erskine Quicksey remarking on the frequency of such incidents. Quicksey estimated damages at nearly $1,000, while the burglars took less than $100.
Surveillance from Soul Veg City depicted the suspects wearing black clothing, masks, and gloves, with a third accomplice reportedly waiting in a vehicle. Co-owner Lori Seay appealed to the perpetrators to actively engage with the community instead of damaging local businesses. Hall is organizing an emergency meeting for business owners to address these concerns.
