Video: Man Drives into Grieb's Pharmacy in Attempted 'Smash and Grab'

Police say a Rowayton man backed his Cadillac Escalade into the front doors of Grieb's Pharmacy—once, twice, three times unlucky—in an attempted burglary that occurred in the wee morning hours.

Darien police arrived at the scene just before 4:30 a.m. to investigate an alarm activation. They say the door showed noticeable damage, consistent with doors being struck by a vehicle.

"I got a call from police that there had been a possible break-in," said Vice President of Grieb's Darien Pharmacy Inc. Mike Raflowitz. "Once they had secured the store, they took me to see the footage."

The surveillance footage shows a full-size SUV, traveling westbound on the Post Road, drive past the pharmacy, and moments later, reverse into the store-front.

"And he's not done; he tries it again," said Raflowitz. "And then he really gives it a good run. And then he left, realized he couldn't get in—three times."

Darien police learned that a similar "smash and grab" attempt had occurred at Stamford Town Center, just an hour and half prior. They say Stamford's surveillance footage reveals a similar vehicle, described as a 2000 Cadillac Escalade attempting to gain entry to the mall at about 3 a.m.

With the registered vehicle owner's name and address, Darien police proceeded to the suspect's home at 117 Rowayton Ave., Norwalk.

"The vehicle parked in the driveway had damage to the rear bumper," said Capt. Fred Komm in a release.

Matthew C. Ilchert, both the vehicle owner and driver, was charged with Criminal Attempt to Burglary third Degree. He posted a $10,000 bond and is due to appear in court on March 15.

Grieb's Pharmacy opened as usual this morning; customers continue to line up to the register, unaware of the morning's events and seemingly unfazed by the door repair.

Landlord David Genovese ordered a replacement door and frame first thing this morning. He says a brand new door, and lock, will be secured by the day's end.

"We're just going to get them back in shape," said Genovese.

Raflowitz said he's not sure what Ilchert was after, as there's very little money in the register.

"You know, it's on the Post Road, and it's lit up, so I guess he saw an opportunity to smash in the door and grab something," said Raflowitz. "Tylenol?"