Police investigating string of smoke shop break-ins in Boston area - Boston News, Weather, Sports | WHDH 7News

SOMERVILLE, MASS. (WHDH) - A series of break-ins at smoke shops in Somerville has left local storeowners concerned. Security footage captured an incident at City Smoke Shop in the North End early Tuesday morning, where three masked suspects forcefully entered the establishment around 2:26 a.m. Owner Waldy Nova expressed his dismay, noting that targeting businesses has become distressingly common in the area.

The situation escalated just 38 minutes later when another break-in occurred at the D and K smoke shop on Highland Avenue, where three suspects, resembling those from the earlier incident, used bricks to shatter the front window. Police believe these crimes may be linked due to the similarities in the suspects' appearances and methods.

Approximately 20 minutes after the second break-in, a third incident unfolded at City Smoke Shop in Cambridge, just a mile away. Here, the same trio of masked men smashed their way inside, causing damage and stealing cash along with other items before fleeing the scene.

As the police investigation continues, local storeowners remain on alert amid this troubling rise in break-ins. Nova shared his philosophy of resilience, stating that businesses must adapt by repairing damages and maintaining operations, despite the challenges posed by these criminal activities.

Authorities are diligently working to connect the dots between the incidents and apprehend those responsible for the spree, as community members hope for a swift resolution to restore a sense of safety in the neighborhood.