Car Stolen From New Lenox Street Used Minutes Later In Smash-And-Grab: NLPD

NEW LENOX, IL — A car stolen from in front of a New Lenox home was used in a smash-and grab at a gaming café minutes later, New Lenox police said.

On June 17, New Lenox police were called at 3:43 a.m. for a glass break alarm at Zin Club Wine Bar, 2461 E Joliet Hwy. Police found the business' front glass door had been shattered, and a slot cash-out machine was in the parking lot in front of the door, according to police reports.

Security video showed two vehicles back in near the business, and two suspects forcing entry by breaking the glass door. The pair removed a cash register box, and attempted to remove the cash-out machine, but failed before fleeing the scene in both vehicles, according to police reports. The cash register box contained about $100.

While investigating the break-in, police later that morning learned that one of the vehicles involved was registered to a home on Laurel Bay. Police spoke with the owner, who confirmed the car had been stolen from in front of their home. The owner told police they had previously moved the vehicle to the street, and forgot to park it back in the driveway and lock it.

Home security video in the area showed a suspect get out of an SUV and get into the car on Laurel Bay, before both fled the area just before 3:30 a.m., police said.

Both incidents are under review for additional investigation or case closure.