Main Street Beer & BBQ is the latest Airdrie business to be targeted by thieves trying to steal an ATM.

A suspect involved in an attempted ATM theft at Main Street Beer & BBQ. (Photo Courtesy: Airdrie RCMP)Cst. Dan Martin explained that 2:14 am on February 5, two suspects smashed a window on the front door of the restaurant and tried to drag the ATM out using a tow strap attached to a dark coloured SUV or minivan. The strap broke and the suspects fled empty handed, but only after causing significant damage to the restaurant's front entrance during the course of the crime. 

This is the third time an Airdrie business has been targeted for an ATM theft. Two suspects successfully stole an ATM from Sobeys on December 7. A similar incident occurred on January 3, when employees at Safeway scared away two suspects trying to drag an ATM out of the store's front entrance. Right now, RCMP are not sure if the crimes are connected.

"Quite often the suspects are wearing different clothing, sometimes they're driving different vehicles, so at this time it's very difficult to determine if they are related," said Cst. Martin, "Obviously, this is a crime that we've seen a few times here in Airdrie within the last couple months."

Cst. Martin said there are some steps business owners can take so they don't become a target. The first has to do with where you place your ATM.

"We would suggest that they keep them away from windows or front doors. It seems to be that the ATMs that are targeted are located just inside front entrances, whether that be at Sobeys or Beer & BBQ, two examples that I can think of."

Other crime prevention measures include only keeping a small amount of cash in the machines, keep your business well lit even when closed, and make sure doors are locked. 

Martin said a well lit building combined with a video surveillance system can help solve these types of cases.

"Video surveillance obviously helps RCMP and the public to better identify these criminals, and we just ask that businesses keep their video surveillance maintained and in good working order."

Police obtained surveillance from Main Street Beer & BBQ, but it was difficult to get a clear visual of either suspect or the vehicle.

 

Questions, comments or story ideas? Email us at news@discoverairdrie.com