Two Attempts to Steal ATMs Overnight in Columbia Unsuccessful

Four overnight break-ins on Jan. 3 resulted in smashed glass windows, ransacked businesses, but nothing taken, according to police.

Police reported a break-in at Lakeside Cafe and Deli around 2 a.m., then another at Mad City Coffee and Columbia Nail Salon which are next to each other on Hickory Ridge Road at 4:38 a.m. and then a break-in at Cradlerock Mart at 5 a.m.

In two of the break-ins, at Lakeside and Cradlerock, attempts were made to remove ATMs from the businesses, but were unsuccessful.

At Lakeside, a side glass window was smashed and pry marks were found on the ATM, although nothing was reported stolen.

At Cradlerock Mart, several unknown persons were seen fleeing from the scene near the 6800 block of Cradlerock Way where an ATM had been pulled halfway out of the front door of the business. Police gave chase to one of the individuals, but were unable to apprehend him or her.

In Hickory Ridge, at Mad City Coffee and Columbia Nail Salon, windows were smashed on both businesses and extensive ransacking was found, but nothing was reported stolen from either business, according to police.

Mad City's register was pried from the counter and knocked to the floor and an attempt was made to force an office door open, but that attempt was unsuccesful, said police.

Police said they are investigating the possibility that the incidents are related.

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