A business owner says they are “incredibly” disheartened after burglars forced entry to an ice cream shop in Highland Park and stole cash and products during overnight hours.
The Highland Park Police Department responded around 3:08 a.m. Friday to La Michoacana Bella, 2641 Waukegan Avenue in Highland Park, for a report of a burglary in progress.
La Michoacana Bella is a family-owned business specializing in homemade ice cream and dessert combinations that are made fresh daily.
The business owner was alerted in real time of the break-in via security cameras and notified the police.
Police said a large rock was used to break the store’s window and the suspects gained entry on the north side of the building.
An unknown suspect took a cash register with cash.
The estimated loss of products and cash was $2,850, which does not include the cost to replace the broken window, police said.
The suspects fled in a black pickup truck that was reportedly stolen from Beach Park.
“I’m saddened and frustrated by the vandalism that happened this morning to our ice cream shop. It’s incredibly disheartening to see something I care so much about get damaged like this,” the business said in a statement.
“I’m asking my friends and family from around the area if you know anything or recognize one of the individuals please reach out to me,” the business owner said.
Surveillance video from the business captured at least two suspects inside the store during the burglary.
One suspect appeared to be stealing products while the other stole cash from the register.
The incident remains under investigation by the Highland Park Police Department and anyone with tips can call the department at 847-432-7730.