Masked thieves hit pharmacy and fast-food outlet during crowded street takeovers in L.A.
Two separate burglaries occurred within minutes of each other as crowds of about 100 people gathered for street takeovers in Los Angeles, targeting a pharmacy and a Jack in the Box restaurant.
Late Sunday night, law enforcement responded to two break-ins that unfolded less than two miles apart as large crowds assembled for illegal street takeovers in Los Angeles. At approximately 11 p.m., two masked individuals sawed through the wall of Lorena Pharmacy on the 3400 block of Whittier Boulevard in Boyle Heights, stealing baskets of goods while about 100 onlookers gathered, with up to ten entering the store. Shortly after, around 11:15 p.m., officers were called to a Jack in the Box near South Downey Road and East Olympic Boulevard in East Los Angeles, where three suspects entered and two masked men left with two cash registers.
The Los Angeles Police Department confirmed no injuries and no arrests so far. The burglaries are part of an ongoing investigation into a series of thefts linked to recent street takeovers, which have also affected several AutoZone locations earlier this month. Authorities are concerned that the presence of large crowds may be diverting police resources away from protecting businesses. The investigation remains active.
Why it matters
The incidents highlight how large, unsanctioned gatherings can create opportunities for crime and strain police resources.
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