Residents of Chicago's 8th and 9th Districts are on edge as a string of brazen ATM robberies has locals questioning their safety. The Chicago Police Department issued a community alert informing residents of a male suspect who follows victims into ATM vestibules, forcibly takes the cash they withdraw, and flees in an awaiting vehicle to an unknown destination.

The alarming incidents occurred within a day of each other, with the first striking the 4400 block of S. Pulaski on March 23, 2024, around 3:47 p.m., and the second disturbance happening on the 4300 block of S. Archer on March 24, 2024, at precisely 9:03 a.m. The suspect, described as a Black male in his 40s to early 50s, was last seen wearing an eye-catching yellow work vest, adding a layer of deceptive 'safety' to his appearance.

Frightened yet vigilant, community members are being advised to always be aware of their surroundings. The police have instructed anyone faced with an assailant to remain calm and to attempt to note any unique identifiers such as scars or tattoos. In a statement obtained by the Chicago Police Department, residents were urged, "Never pursue a fleeing assailant; provide the information to the police."

Adding to the list of precautionary measures, the police suggest saving a copy of any surveillance footage that captures an incident and immediately dialing 9-1-1 if approached by a perpetrator. If a good Samaritan witnesses the crime, gather their contact information, but most importantly, don't play the hero—leave an apprehension to the authorities.