PHILADELPHIA, PA — Authorities in Philadelphia are intensifying efforts to identify and apprehend a suspect believed to be responsible for a series of commercial burglaries in the city’s 14th District. The Northwest Detective Division is investigating these incidents, which have occurred between September 23 and October 31, 2024, based on similarities in the suspect’s method and appearance.
The suspect is described as an older black male with a thin build and graying hair. He typically operates between 2 a.m. and 6 a.m., often seen pushing a shopping cart filled with black trash bags through the streets after the burglaries.
The crime spree began on September 23, when a man was observed smashing a window at the Ultimo Coffee Shop on Wayne Avenue with a rock, before absconding with audio equipment. Another incident on October 8 involved a suspect breaking into a store on W Chelten Avenue and stealing various items, including deodorants and laundry detergent.
Additional burglaries occurred at Kinesics Dance Dynamics on October 13, where clothing and tools were stolen, and at Covenant House on October 24, resulting in the theft of laptops, a safe, and a security camera. The latest incident was reported on October 31 at Germantown Friends School, where an Apple iPad was taken.
Police urge anyone who may recognize the suspect or has information about these crimes to contact the Northwest Detective Division at 215-686-3353 or 215-686-3354. Tips can also be submitted anonymously via the hotline at 215.686.TIPS (8477).
Law enforcement emphasizes that these allegations remain under investigation and remind the public that all suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Further developments may arise as the inquiry continues.
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