Colorado Springs faced yet another smash-and-grab burglary, this time targeting a local vape shop.
The incident is part of a growing wave of similar crimes in the area, raising concerns about property damage and youth criminal activity.
Smash-and-Grab Incident Details
At around 3:40 a.m. on Wednesday, a stolen Hyundai crashed into the front of the Vape & Smoke Shop on North Academy Boulevard.
The car smashed through the brick wall, leaving extensive damage to the storefront.
Once inside, the two minors reportedly stole vape products and an empty cash register.
While the damage was severe, the shop reopened later the same day with repairs underway.
This is not the first break-in at the store, which has faced other attempted burglaries in the past.
Minors’ Escape and Arrest
After the burglary, the minors fled the scene in another stolen vehicle, a Kia Soul.
The Motor Theft Unit tracked the stolen car and located the suspects, leading to their detention shortly after the crime.
One minor was arrested and charged with motor vehicle theft, along with other outstanding warrants.
Police noted that this minor had been arrested multiple times earlier this year.
The second minor was released while investigations into their involvement continue.
Ongoing Pattern of Crimes
Colorado Springs has been hit with over 50 smash-and-grab cases this year, with vape shops, pawn shops, and gun stores being frequent targets.
These crimes typically involve stolen vehicles used to break into businesses, causing costly damage.
Police believe that many of these burglaries are carried out by youthful offenders, a pattern reflected in this latest incident.
Authorities are ramping up efforts to address the trend and prevent further cases, but the string of crimes continues to be a challenge for local businesses.
These recurring incidents highlight the need for stronger preventative measures and effective responses from both the community and law enforcement.
As investigations progress, shop owners and residents hope for solutions to curb these costly and disruptive crimes.
