Trio suspected in string of Houston-area cigarette burglaries

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- Police are searching for three burglars they say are responsible for stealing thousands of dollars' worth of cigarettes from at least 10 liquor stores around the Houston area.

Authorities say the trio attempted two burglaries in one night. On August 16 around 9:45pm, police say the three suspects, wearing masks and gloves, broke into a liquor store in the 3900 block of Bissonnet St. Police say the suspects damaged the front door, but didn't make it in and fled the scene before police arrived. Police say the same men were seen stealing cigarettes in bulk from another liquor store later that same night.

The first suspect is a black male, 19-25 years old, 5'10, 185 pounds, with brown eyes and short black hair, with a dark brown skin tone, wearing high top Jordan tennis shoes and a diamond earring. Police say his alias name is "Diamond."

The second suspect is a black male, 18-25 years old, 5'05, 135 pounds, with brown eyes and a light brown skin tone, wearing grey camouflage pants and high tops Jordan tennis shoes. His alias name, according to police is "Lil Box."

The third suspect is a black male, 19-25 years old, dark skin tone, wearing a blue hoodie sweater with red letters and Nike high top tennis shoes. His alias is "Crowbar," according to police.

Police say the men may be using a 2003 light blue Chevy Impala as a lookout vehicle.

A $5,000 Crime Stoppers reward is being offered in this case. If you have any information, call 713-222-TIPS (8477).