Aurora ‘smash and grab’ burglar strikes 4 more times

A burglar known for smashing glass doors to enter businesses in Aurora has struck again in recent days, Aurora police say.

The “smash and grab” burglar has been linked four additional burglaries, in addition to eight previous burglaries this month. All occurred between March 8 and March 17 and all took place in the same style — by using a rock or a brick to smash the windows. The burglar then attempted to steal or break into the cash registers.

The total loss, including property damage, attributed to this burglar now tops $26,500.

The most recent burglaries occurred at:

Ÿ 1:15 a.m. Friday at a gas station on the 300 block of East Galena Boulevard.

Ÿ 2:35 a.m. Saturday at a gas station on the 1100 block of East New York Street.

Ÿ 1:30 a.m. Sunday at a gas station on the 1300 block of North Lake Street.

Ÿ 2:10 a.m. Sunday at a liquor store on the 1600 block of North Randall Road.

Eight previous burglaries took place this month at gas stations, hair salons, supermarkets and commercial buildings. Police believe the suspect to be a white man between 5 feet 5 inches and 6 feet fall and weighing between 170 and 200 pounds.

He could be driving a small, four-door compact car similar to a Mitsubishi Lancer.

Since the initial burglaries were reported in the media, the thief has started wearing a mask, police say.

Authorities are asking anyone with information to call investigators at (630) 256-5500 or the Aurora Area Crime Stoppers at (630) 892-1000. Callers to Crime Stoppers can remain anonymous and may qualify for a cash reward of up to $5,000 for information that leads to an arrest.