Caught on camera: Shirtless intruder carries out destructive ransacking of catering business

Video: Shirtless intruder wreaks havoc in South Philly catering business

Philadelphia police are searching for a man who spent over 17 hours vandalizing a catering hall in South Philadelphia. The suspect, caught on surveillance cameras, caused extensive damage to Swan's Caterers on Water Street from July 5th to July 6th.

SOUTH PHILADELPHIA - Philadelphia police are searching for a man who spent over 17 hours vandalizing a catering hall in South Philadelphia. The suspect, caught on surveillance cameras, caused extensive damage to Swan's Caterers on Water Street from July 5th to July 6th.

Shirtless man throws metal pan at security camera during destructive break-in of Philly catering business

Police in Philadelphia are searching for a shirtless man caught on camera breaking into a catering business and destroying items in the kitchen.

What we know:

The incident began at 11:30 a.m. on July 6th, with the suspect remaining on the premises until 5 a.m. the following day.

In that time, he removed his shirt and proceeded to destroy various parts of the catering hall, including the kitchen and storage areas.

Surveillance footage captured him tossing items and even throwing a pan at a camera. Despite the presence of cameras, no burglar alarms were triggered, leading to speculation about whether an alarm system was installed or operational.

Police are searching for a man who they say broke into a Philadelphia catering business and spent hours inside destroying items.

What they're saying:

Local residents expressed surprise at the lack of a security system. Tom from South Philadelphia remarked, "I'm a little surprised at that. That they didn't have an alarm in there. You gotta have an alarm."

Skip Caputo added, "I can't believe they don't have a security system. It would have alerted the police. Could have prevented it."

The other side:

Neighbors have been urging authorities to address issues related to individuals living in vehicles or loitering under nearby I-95. They suspect the vandal may be among this group, possibly familiar with the catering hall's staffing schedule.

What's next:

Police are relying on the surveillance footage to identify the suspect, who left the premises by climbing over a high gate, taking only his sweat-soaked t-shirt.

Authorities are pulling close-up stills from the footage to aid in the search. Meanwhile, local residents continue to call for increased security measures and attention to the area's ongoing issues.

What you can do:

Anyone who recognizes the suspect should contact the Philadelphia Police Department.