Story thread · 3 reports / 2 sources

What is inspiring spike in break-ins and vandalism at an abandoned NJ movie theater?

nbcnewyork.com · 12dShare

Break-ins and vandalism at an abandoned movie theater in New Jersey have triggered warnings and a crackdown by police, who believe the problem is being driven by a growing trend on social media. Films stopped showing at the former Xscape movie theater in Howell Township in 2021, but there’s still drama happening inside. “A lot of my friends, I know personally, have been inside. They like the thrill of it,” said Josh Krutyansky, who lives in the town. Police have their theories as to why people continue to trespass inside the vacant cinema. “It’s been recently picking up now because of the viral TikTok videos,” said John Barroqueiro, of Howell Township Police. Officers have been investigating recent social media videos shot inside the abandoned theater. They believe the posts have led to an increase in trespassing, vandalism and damage at the building over the past couple weeks, mainly involving teens and young adults. All but one of the four people charged so far have come from outside

First report: Stay out of vacant former movie theater, cops in N.J town warn — nj.com, 13d