Lululemon on Southport targeted in overnight smash-and-grab

Lululemon Southport was burglarized early Thursday morning, according to Chicago police. The incident occurred around 3:28 a.m. in the 3500 block of Southport Avenue, located in the Lakeview neighborhood.

Authorities reported that a group of four to five men shattered the glass door to gain entry to the store. The suspects were seen fleeing in a silver Audi. Fortunately, the store was empty at the time of the break-in, and no injuries were reported.

At this time, no arrests have been made, and CPD Area Three detectives are investigating.

This burglary is part of a troubling trend of smash-and-grab thefts in Chicago, which have increased in recent years. The surge in such crimes reflects a broader national pattern that emerged during the pandemic, as economic pressures, police understaffing, and decreased enforcement have created a favorable environment for organized retail theft.

Many cities across the U.S. have struggled to combat these crime waves, leading to growing concerns over public safety and law enforcement challenges. In a word, infuriating.