Seemingly Drunk Guy Tunnels Into Old City Bar After Hours, Drinks More

When we hear about tunneling in relation to a crime, usually the story that unfolds is one of a bank heist or a daring jailhouse escape, at least in the movies. But in this case, the tunneling suspect tunneled into a Chinese restaurant and karaoke bar in Old City and managed to steal nothing — well, other than some alcoholic beverages.

According to police, the crime occurred on Saturday around 2:50 a.m. at Xi’an Cuisine at 120 Chestnut Street. The man seen in these photos allegedly tunneled through the restaurant’s rear brick wall and attempted to gain access to the cash register, which we’re guessing was empty.

But the suspect — whose stumbling and bumbling on the surveillance footage (the full video appears below) suggests that he was pretty lit up — did manage to have some drinks. He’s also seen attempting to tamper with one of the security cameras, giving police some excellent images of him along the way.

At some point during his intrepid endeavor, the suspect was interrupted by the owner of Xi’an. There was a struggle, and the man escaped, fleeing south on 2nd Street.

Police describe the suspect as follows: “Hispanic male, thin build, 30-40 years-of-age, 5’6″-5’9″.”

Anyone with information is asked to call the Central Detective Division at 215-686-3093 or the police tip line at 215-686-TIPS.