ASTORIA — Cops are hunting for a shirtless burglar who targeted laundromats and an artisanal butcher shop and barbecue joint, swiping more than $6,000 during a five-day spree.
The suspect, approximately 20-30 years old, has struck in the middle of the night and in one instance, he was captured bare chested on surveillance tape, appearing to have a t-shirt wrapped around his head.
In the first instance, on July 17th, he allegedly broke into Butcher Bar located at 37-08 30th Ave., a shop that opened last December featuring "local, grass fed organic and natural selections" as well as barbecue offerings.
According to cops, he entered through the rear door around 2:30 a.m. and stole approximately $700 from the cash register.
Three days later, he allegedly broke into Mister Laundree at 32-02 34th Ave., breaking through the rear window around 3:30 a.m. and stealing less than $500.
The suspect struck again the next day at Astoria Laundry, at 28-09 24th Ave., breaking in through a side window and stealing around $5,000 from the cash register before fleeing.
Police described the suspect as thin-built. He was last seen wearing a T-shirt with an eagle printed on it and dark blue jeans.
Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477). The public can also submit their tips by logging onto the Crime Stoppers website at WWW.NYPDCRIMESTOPPERS.COM or by texting their tips to 274637 (CRIMES) then enter TIP577.
All calls are strictly confidential.
