RPD asks for help identifying suspects in smash-and-grab burglaries near Dewey Ave

UPDATE: Rochester Police shared surveillance footage of the smash-and-grab burglaries on March 21 around the Dewey Avenue area. RPD is asking anyone with information on the people shown in the footage to call 428-9885 or email PSI@cityofrochester.gov.

ROCHESTER, N.Y. — Four businesses were damaged in smash-and-grab burglaries on Tuesday morning before 5 a.m. around the Dewey Avenue area. Rochester Police say that Kia and Hyundai cars were used in all of the burglaries and they have evidence that at least one of the cars was stolen.

Here are the businesses that were damaged:

• Joe’s Quick Mart – 933 West Ridge Road
• Puff Puff Pass Smoke Shop – 337 Driving Park Ave
• Roc 7 Convenience Store – 1325 Dewey Ave
• My Way Station – 735 Emerson Street

RPD says a 2012 Hyundai was used to break into Joe’s Quick Mart around 3:30 a.m. on the suspects fled in a Kia. Officers found the Hyundai with ignition damage, indicating that it was stolen.

An hour later, RPD officers responded to an alarm at the ROC 7 Convenience Store. They said a Hyundai was used to drive into the building while others stood by in a Kia.

Similarly, a Kia and Hyundai were used to drive into Puff Puff Pass Smoke Shop ten minutes later, according to RPD. Then, just before 4:50 a.m., a Hyundai and Kia were used to break into My Way Station.

Police are also investigating after they said a Hyundai intentionally crashed into the Dunkin Donuts on Lake Avenue on Monday around 10:30 p.m. Nothing was stolen and the car was abandoned.

RPD is asking anyone with information about these burglaries to call 911.

Car thefts, especially Kia and Hyundai models, have increased this year in the Rochester area. The community has expressed concerns about people stealing Kias and Hyundais because of how-to videos circulating on social media.