The Chicago Police Department issued a community alert for residents of the 19th, 20th, and 24th Districts following a series of early morning robberies occurring between December 18 and December 23. According to the alert, assailants used stolen vehicles to box victims into their cars before brandishing firearms and demanding personal items such as phones. The report indicates that the offenders traveled in a white 2021 Kia Seltos and a purple 2015 Hyundai, with the license plates EH58247 and DX86882, respectively.
The suspects have been described as 6-8 African American males, ages 17-25, wearing black bandana-like face coverings, black hooded sweatshirts, and black footwear. The Police Department is urging locals to be vigilant and to quickly report any suspicious behavior. They also advise those confronted by an assailant to remain calm and to try to memorize any unique physical characteristics of the offenders.
Robberies were reported at multiple locations, including the 5400 block of North Damen Ave and the 2900 block of North Clark Street, with incidents occurring in close succession in the early hours of the morning.
The Chicago Police Department emphasizes the importance of not pursuing fleeing assailants and instead providing detailed information to the authorities. They are also asking anyone who might have information about these crimes to come forward. Residents are advised to always dial 9-1-1 immediately and, if possible, to remain on the scene until police arrive. For those driving, the CPD recommends leaving space between vehicles as a precaution to not get easily boxed in.
