Pittsburgh police investigating string of business burglaries in Lawrenceville

PITTSBURGH — Pittsburgh police are investigating after a string of business burglaries in Lawrenceville.

Officers responded to reports of five businesses that were either broken into or had attempted break-ins. These incidents happened overnight from Saturday, Aug. 27 to Sunday, Aug. 28 between the 3500 and 4100 blocks of Butler Street.

According to police, three businesses had their front doors shattered. Two had their cash drawers emptied, while a third had a cash drawer stolen. One business was broken into and a safe was ransacked, but nothing appeared to be missing. A fifth business had the front door tampered with, but no entry was made.

The owners of Alchemy Dry Cut Lounge, Mosaic Leaf and Una Biologica identified their businesses as among those targeted. Heather Johnson, who owns Alchemy, said the burglar got away with $300 from her cash register.

“It’s a very creepy feeling. You definitely do feel violated. Being robbed is a risk you take as a business owner, unfortunately, being in a busy business district like this,” Johnson said.

Police said they contacted all of the key holders of the businesses and are working on gathering any available video.

People in the area said they’re shocked and upset to hear about what happened but said it won’t deter them from visiting Butler Street.

“The visibility down here — it’s very well occupied all through the night, so it’s surprising,” said Eric Kellar, who lives nearby.

Pittsburgh police continue to investigate. Channel 11 asked them if this crime spree was in any way connected to a series of similar crimes in Shadyside. They said they are looking into that possibility.

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