ELLINGTON — Connecticut State Police are investigating two early morning burglaries in Ellington.
On Thursday, around 5:30 a.m. state troopers were called to the Ellington Depot General Store on Crystal Lake Road. The front door and side window to the business had been smashed, police said, and a search of the business found the thieves attempted to steal the ATM.
Woner Frank Rogalla, who has had the business for about 30 years, said this is the sixth or seventh time this has happened.
At the same time, troopers were called to a similar incident, just a tenth of a mile away on Rte. 30 at the Lake Side Deli. At this location, the thieves forced their way into an ATM machine and took off with the cash, police said. Communication wires leading from utility poles to each of the respective businesses had also been cut.
The thieves apparently tried to steal the ATM at the first store as well, but it was bolted to the floor.
“You’d need a truck to get that thing out of there. That’s not going anywhere so they just pried the doors off to see what they could get they’re stupid. They don’t know that you can’t just go in there with a pry bar and getting it open,” Rogalla explained.
Police reviewed surveillance footage and learned at least two males were responsible for the related burglaries. Police also saw a two-tone blue GMC pick-up truck around the same time as the incidents.
If anyone thinks they may have any information about these burglaries or the suspects is asked to please contact Detective Scott Crevier at 860-896-3233 or text TIP711 with any information to 274637. All calls can remain anonymous.
