HOUSTON – A string of burglaries targeting bars and restaurants across Harris County and surrounding areas have left business owners frustrated, fearful, and desperate for answers.
Surveillance videos from more than 10 different establishments show what appears to be the same group of masked thieves breaking into businesses late at night.
In each case, the suspects can be seen crawling behind bars, presumably in an attempt to avoid setting off motion-activated alarms.
In the incidents captured, the burglars smashed windows, stole liquor bottles, cash registers, and caused tens of thousands of dollars in damage. The burglars are seen inside of some businesses from up to 3 hours, and they’re in others in less than 5 minutes.
“They were in and out in about a minute’s time and did about $10,000 worth of damage,” said one bar owner.
The business owners believe these crimes are connected.
“We are probably about the tenth bar in the area that’s been hit,” said another owner, pointing out recurring similarities in the break-ins. “They always come in threes. They’re hooded, wearing gloves, and surgical-style face masks.”
One key clue: a black Infiniti believed to be involved in multiple incidents. Security footage also shows one suspect repeatedly wearing what looks like a Houston Texans hoodie.
A widening crime spree
This isn’t isolated to one part of Harris County.
Reports of similar break-ins are coming from Stafford, Sugar Land, Katy, Cypress, and beyond. Business owners say the growing crime spree is affecting their livelihoods and peace of mind.
“We’re a new bar, and this was supposed to be our best month,” one owner said. “This is setting us back.”
Another added, “It’s the mental part of it — the fear of leaving at night and wondering if my business will still be intact by morning.”
The Harris County Sheriff’s Office has not confirmed if the same suspects are behind all the burglaries but says they are actively working leads tied to four of the reported incidents.
If you recognize the individuals in the surveillance videos or have any information, you’re urged to contact the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Burglary and Theft Unit at 713-274-9200.
