A River North restaurant in Chicago was burglarized less than 48 hours after celebrating its grand opening, according to local reports.
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The restaurant, Soul Vibez, had just opened its doors when a male suspect broke in early Wednesday morning. FOX 32 Chicago reports that the business was targeted overnight, leaving the owners dealing with damage and loss almost immediately after launching.
“He took a few hundred dollars in petty cash, but the registers, computers, internet access — that’s what hurts us,” said Laricia Baker, co-owner of Soul Vibes. “In this day and age, you can’t run a business without systems.”
The suspect also selectively stole high-end liquor before fleeing. The owner said the cost of repairing the damage will likely be more than what was taken.
The incident has sparked frustration and sympathy online, with many calling out the growing challenges small businesses face in the city — especially new Black-owned establishments trying to gain footing.
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Police are investigating the burglary, and no arrests have been announced so far.
