By: Richard L. Smith
Police are investigating a series of overnight burglaries reported over a three-day span in Montclair and are urging residents and business owners to remain alert and take basic safety precautions.
Authorities emphasized that, at this time, the incidents do not appear to follow a single pattern, nor is there confirmation that one individual or group is responsible for all of the reported cases.
However, the close timing and nature of the incidents have prompted police to advise the community to be especially cautious.
The first incident occurred during the early morning hours of January 23, 2026, when officers responded to an activated alarm at a pharmacy located near Valley Road and Laurel Place.
Upon arrival, police found the front door completely shattered and items disturbed near the entrance.
Surveillance footage later showed two suspects approaching the business shortly after 3:10 a.m., with one using a heavy tool to smash the glass door.
The individuals entered the store briefly, removed several boxes from inside, and fled the scene within minutes.
The following morning, on January 24, a resident on Lorraine Avenue reported being awakened by her home alarm system.
When she went downstairs, she encountered two unknown males inside the foyer of her home. After she screamed, the suspects fled. Investigators determined the door leading into the foyer had been forced open. 
Surveillance footage indicated the suspects had first attempted to gain access to a vehicle parked outside the home before entering the residence.
A third incident was reported on January 25, when officers responded to a burglary in progress at another pharmacy on Grove Street.
A witness reported seeing three individuals exiting the business through a shattered front door and fleeing northbound. Investigators determined the door had been smashed using large rocks found inside the store.
Several prescription medications were reported stolen before the suspects escaped on foot.
Police say the suspects in these incidents were described as wearing dark clothing, masks, and gloves, with one individual in the Grove Street case wearing a bright-colored jacket.
In some instances, suspects were observed carrying bags believed to contain stolen items.
While investigators continue to follow leads, police are asking residents and business owners to take simple but effective precautions, including locking and securing doors, ensuring alarm systems are active, and avoiding leaving cash or valuables inside vehicles overnight.
Anyone with information related to the pharmacy burglaries is urged to contact Detective Garth Guthrie at 973-509-4712.