A robbery occurred in the parking lot of a store on 1333 Western Ave, with three men in their 20s attempting to rob an armored truck at gunpoint. As fate would have it, one of the suspects was struck by the armored truck in the process, sustaining injuries. The FBI has released the video, hoping the outcome of this attempted heist might combat the escalating number of armed robbery cases per CBS News.
Crime is on the rise. Loyola University Chicago psychology and criminology professor Arthur Lurigio affirmed this trend, mentioning that armed robberies are indeed increasing, both in Chicago and across the nation. He shared that "armed robberies can result in aggravated batteries, attempted murders, and homicides."
In April, thieves targeted three armored trucks around Chicago's Bridgeport neighborhood and the south suburbs. Then, in March, a suspect grabbed bags and fled from a Brinks truck in Orland Park. Another event unfolded in February, where an armored car guard was shot and hit in the bulletproof vest in Chatham.
Lurigio further suspected that each successful ambush increases the likelihood of future attacks. "If they're getting away with these types of activities or with impunity, that might embolden other people who are willing to do that," he said. However, he believes that video footage of a failed robbery leading to injury for the thief, like the recent Chicago Heights incident, won't serve the same purpose. Instead, it may act as a deterrent, showcasing the risk involved in such heists.
With this newfound perspective, the FBI and Chicago Heights Police quickly jumped into action, offering a $20,000 reward to help bring the culprits to justice. The getaway vehicle, a dark-colored Nissan sedan, also suffered extensive damage after being struck by the armored truck. ABC7 Chicago reported that the car had no license plates, but did feature a dealer advertisement with a star and blue lettering.
Anyone with information regarding the incident or the whereabouts of the individuals involved is urged to report tips to the FBI at (312) 421-6700, or submit them online at tips.fbi.gov.
