Masked Thieves Smash Into Illinois Lounge, Steal Cash From Game Machines

Police in Dolton, Illinois, are investigating a violent overnight burglary after masked thieves used sledgehammers to break into Lucky Star Entertainment and steal cash from gaming machines.

Surveillance footage from early Wednesday morning captured three or four suspects dressed in dark clothing and ski masks as they shattered the front door of the lounge on Sibley Boulevard and began smashing the machines.

“They got one cash box right here,” owner Mike Edmund said. “They took this cash box out, and they couldn’t get this one out but they was right at it. But look at this machine; it was terrible.”

Edmund said this is the third time his business has been targeted, and he’ll likely have to close for several days to repair the damage.

Dolton police responded to the scene after a burglar alarm went off, but the suspects fled in a black Dodge Challenger with no visible registration. Officers briefly pursued the car but were forced to end the chase due to the vehicle’s high speed.

Security video shows one of the suspects wearing bright blue pants and white Nikes — details Edmund hopes will help police identify the crew.

Retired Chicago Police Deputy Superintendent Anthony Riccio believes the break-in was planned. “These guys knew that those machines would be loaded with cash. They knew the timing and how much money would be inside,” Riccio said. “It wasn’t an accident or coincidence.”

Riccio added that thieves often target gaming machines because “it’s lucrative and it’s easy,” which could explain why Lucky Star Entertainment has been hit multiple times.

Police are asking anyone with information about the burglary to contact Dolton authorities.

Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley.