In-N-Out Burger, the iconic fast-food chain known for its delicious burgers and Bible verses on the packaging, is closing one of its store locations in Northern California. The decision comes as a result of increasingly frequent incidents of crime near the restaurant.

The store, situated near Oakland International Airport on Oakport Street, will cease operations next month, marking the first closure in In-N-Out's 75-year history. The chain's chief operating officer, Denny Warnick, cited "ongoing issues with crime" as the primary reason for the closure.

Despite making efforts to create safer conditions, the store has been plagued by a substantial rise in criminal activity. The area surrounding the location has seen over 1,300 reported incidents since 2019, surpassing all other In-N-Out locations in Oakland.

Warnick emphasized that the decision to close was a difficult one, as the Oakport Street store remained both busy and profitable. However, ensuring the safety and well-being of customers and associates is a top priority for the company, and asking them to visit or work in an unsafe environment is not viable.

Employees affected by the closure will be given the option to transfer to another In-N-Out location or receive a severance package. The closure, however, will not impact other In-N-Out locations in Alameda, San Ramon, and other cities in the East Bay.

Although bidding farewell to the store, In-N-Out Burger will continue to engage in charitable work within the Oakland community, according to Warnick.

The closure of this In-N-Out location serves as a stark reminder of the security challenges faced by businesses in areas with rising crime rates. It highlights the importance of prioritizing the safety of both customers and employees above all else.