Masked burglars targeted two Southern California businesses during separate street takeover events on Sunday night, with one pharmacy being looted after a crowd of approximately 100 people gathered nearby. The Los Angeles Police Department confirmed the incidents occurred in Boyle Heights and East Los Angeles.
The first burglary took place around 11 p.m. at Lorena Pharmacy on Whittier Boulevard. Video footage showed two suspects using a saw to cut through the entrance before filling baskets with merchandise and fleeing. Police reported that as many as 10 individuals entered the pharmacy while about 100 people were gathered in the vicinity for a street takeover.
Less than two miles away, a Jack in the Box restaurant was targeted around 11:15 p.m. near South Downey Road and East Olympic Boulevard, also during a street takeover. According to the LAPD, three suspects entered the restaurant, and two of them allegedly stole two cash registers.
Authorities reported no injuries in either incident, and no arrests have been made. The burglaries are under investigation as part of a pattern of smash-and-grabs linked to street takeover events in the Los Angeles area. Several AutoZone stores were also burglarized during similar events earlier this month. Law enforcement officials are examining whether the increase in large gatherings for illegal street takeovers diverts police resources, potentially making businesses more vulnerable.