By A.J. Harris
BLOOMINGTON – For the second night in a row, looters struck retail stores, smashing the glass entrance of Kohl’s at Eastland Mall just after 11:00 and stealing items before fleeing.
This was a stark contrast to the early evening’s peaceful protests, where marchers made their way through neighborhoods, wanting their voices heard.
That contrast was summed up by a tearful onlooker, standing across the street from Kohl’s as the events unfolded.
“This is not us,” the young woman said. “This is not what we represent.”
After the looting began, police on the scene advanced, firing teargas into the crowd, causing both looters and bystanders alike to flee.
It is being reported by news partner HOI/ABC that Bloomington Mayor Tari Renner was also present on the scene, and was pushed down by some of those to whom he was speaking.
Other stores targeted by looters last night include Rent-A-Center, located on West Market Street in Bloomington, and Monster Pawn, on South Main in Normal.
There have been conflicting reports of how many arrests have been made, and both the BPD and NPD have yet to comment on that number.
A.J Harris can be reached at [email protected]
