CHELSEA, MI — A late-night attempted pharmacy break-in at a local hospital was stopped early Friday morning, leading to the arrest of two Detroit men while two additional suspects remain on the run.
According to police, officers were dispatched around 2:40 a.m. on March 20 to the University of Michigan Health Chelsea Health Center, located at 14700 E. Old U.S. 12, after receiving a report of a burglary in progress. Authorities say four individuals were attempting to force entry into the hospital’s pharmacy.
When officers arrived in the area, they spotted a vehicle matching the description provided in the initial report. Police initiated a pursuit, but the vehicle was later found abandoned and unoccupied in the 17000 block of W. Old U.S. 12.
After searching the area and following investigative leads, police identified and arrested two men, ages 39 and 40, both from Detroit. The two were taken into custody but were later released pending further investigation, authorities confirmed.
Two other suspects involved in the incident have not yet been identified and remain at large. Police are continuing efforts to locate and question them.
Investigators believe the same group may be connected to a series of pharmacy and smoke shop break-ins across several Michigan communities, including Shelby Township, Novi, Flat Rock and East Lansing. Authorities are coordinating with neighboring departments as they examine similarities between the incidents.
Officials noted that no medications or other items were stolen during the Chelsea incident. Recently installed security upgrades at the hospital pharmacy are credited with preventing the suspects from gaining access.
The investigation remains active. Police are reviewing surveillance footage and urging anyone with information related to the attempted break-in or similar incidents to contact local authorities.
Community members are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity, particularly around medical facilities and retail pharmacies during overnight hours.
