PHILADELPHIA, PA — Authorities in Philadelphia are investigating a series of commercial burglaries that occurred between November 2024 and May 2025 across West Philadelphia. Police believe the incidents may be connected, citing similarities in the suspects’ descriptions, attire, and methods of entry. A total of nine establishments were targeted, resulting in significant financial losses and property damage.
The first reported burglary took place at Pine Street Mini Market on November 7, 2024. According to police, unknown offenders breached a rear wall to enter the business, damaging the structure and stealing cash from the cash register, an ATM, and video lottery machines.
Subsequent incidents involved a range of businesses, including laundromats, markets, a bar, and other establishments. Each burglary followed a distinct pattern, with offenders reportedly disabling security systems and stealing cash, liquor, merchandise, or tools. Several scenes showed evidence of deliberate efforts by the suspects to eliminate traces of their presence, such as pouring bleach on surfaces to obscure forensic evidence.
One of the most notable incidents occurred on May 17, 2025, at a beauty supply store on Lancaster Avenue. Police allege the suspects entered through a hole cut in the building’s ceiling, disabled security cameras, and stole approximately $4,000 from an ATM, along with cash, products, and other valuables.
Investigators are examining surveillance footage recovered from some of the crime scenes in an attempt to identify the individuals responsible. Authorities have encouraged anyone with information about the burglaries or the suspects to contact the Southwest Detective Division at 215-686-3183 or submit a tip via the police department’s confidential tip line.
Residents are reminded not to approach any suspects and to contact 911 immediately if they have knowledge of their whereabouts.
All allegations remain under investigation, and any suspects identified will be presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Further updates will be shared as the investigation develops.
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