Introduction to the Incident
A break-in occurred at Big League Burgers, a restaurant in the Irving Park neighborhood, early Tuesday morning. The incident involved a trio of vandals, one of whom was wearing a mask from the Scream movie franchise. The owner, Peter Mihopoulos, witnessed the attempted burglary via his security system and believes it may be the same individuals who have previously targeted the store.
Details of the Break-in
The break-in happened shortly after 4 a.m. when a patio door was smashed with a brick, allowing two of the criminals to enter the premises. A third individual remained outside, acting as a lookout. Surveillance video showed that the vandals were in and out within approximately 45 seconds.
Surveillance Footage
Timestamps on the surveillance video revealed the swift nature of the break-in. The footage also captured the moment the patio door was smashed, allowing the criminals to gain access to the restaurant.
Impact on the Restaurant
This incident marks the third break-in at Big League Burgers in the last two years, according to Mihopoulos. The owner expressed his frustration and sadness, stating, "It’s a battle to keep open. It’s a struggle. It’s tough," as he choked back tears. Despite the challenges, Mihopoulos remains determined, saying, "But you’ve got to keep going. It’s all you can do."
Aftermath and Response
The vandals did not steal anything but caused significant damage to the restaurant. Mihopoulos confirmed that Big League Burgers would be open for business on Wednesday, demonstrating the restaurant’s resilience in the face of adversity.
Conclusion
The break-in at Big League Burgers highlights the ongoing challenges faced by small businesses in the area. Despite the setbacks, the determination of the owner to keep the restaurant open is a testament to the community’s spirit. It is essential for local authorities and residents to work together to prevent such incidents and support businesses like Big League Burgers.
FAQs
- Q: What happened at Big League Burgers?
A: A trio of vandals broke into the restaurant early Tuesday morning, causing damage but not stealing anything. - Q: Is this the first incident of its kind at the restaurant?
A: No, according to the owner, this is the third break-in in the last two years. - Q: Will the restaurant be open after the incident?
A: Yes, Big League Burgers was scheduled to be open for business on Wednesday. - Q: What is being done to address the issue of break-ins in the area?
A: The article does not specify the actions being taken by local authorities, but it emphasizes the need for the community to come together to support local businesses and prevent future incidents.
