We are writing to update you on a recent incident of vandalism in our neighborhood and to remind everyone of the simple, everyday safety practices we can all use to protect our community.
In the early morning hours of Tuesday May 26, between 2:00 AM and 4:00 AM, a series of etched glass graffiti attacks occurred along both sides of Montrose Ave, stretching from Clark Street to Ravenswood.
Over 10 windows were damaged, targeting local businesses and neighborhood schools—including Ravenswood School (4332 N. Paulina), the newly renovated Dunkin’ Donuts (1441 W. Montrose), and Quantum LEEP Forward Academy (1447 W. Montrose). The suspects left behind initials tagged as “KOM”. Repairing etched glass is incredibly costly and a massive and unfair burden for our local small businesses and schools.
Thanks to our highly connected network, GWCA neighborhood leaders jumped into action immediately. Security camera footage capturing two suspects has already been retrieved and shared with Alderman Matt Martin’s office, Alderwoman Angela Clay’s office, and the 19th District CAPS team.
How you can help right now
Check Your Cameras: If you have security or doorbell cameras facing the street, sidewalk, or alleys near Montrose, please review your footage from Tuesday, May 26, between 2:00 AM and 4:00 AM. If you spot any suspicious behavior or individuals matching the timeline, please forward clips or stills to GWCA and the 19th District CAPS office.
File a Police Report: If your property or business was tagged, please ensure you file an individual police report immediately. Police reports are required for every separate crime so that law enforcement can officially track patterns.
Report to 311: Several locations have already been reported for graffiti removal (including SR numbers tracked by Ald. Martin’s office), but if you notice any missed tags or other neighborhood damage, please snap a photo and submit it using the Chicago Works / 311 app.
Incidents like this remind us how vital our Neighborhood Safety Guidelines are. To deter future vandalism and property damage, we encourage every household and business to reinforce these collective steps:
- Light Up the Night (Dusk to Dawn)
- Install and Utilize Video Security
- Know Your Neighbors & Keep the Lines Open
- Report Everything: never hesitate to call 911 for crimes or suspicious behavior in progress
GWCA Announcements & Upcoming Events
While we stay vigilant about safety, we also have plenty of exciting ways to bring positive energy to our community
- TODAY 5/30/26, 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM: 47th Ward ECO Fest: Don’t forget that Alderman Matt Martin’s EcoFest is happening this Saturday! Come out to support local environmental initiatives.
- TOMORROW 5/31/26 10:30 to 11:00 AM: Kids Pollinator Planting Garden Event in Warner Park.
- 44th Annual Garden Walk: Mark your calendars for Sunday, July 12 from 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM! If you would like to join the Garden Walk Committee, help with the Pot Luck Committee, or open up your own garden to be showcased, please contact Linda Welsh to get involved.
- Join the GWCA Council: We currently have two open positions on the GWCA Council! If you want to bring your ideas and energy to help shape the neighborhood, please reach out to us at info@gracelandwest.org.
Thank you to all the block leaders, business owners, and neighbors who stepped up so quickly to look out for Montrose Avenue. Together, we keep Graceland West safe, vibrant, and strong!
