Chicago businesses are on high alert as a string of armed robberies plague the city's convenience stores. According to a Chicago Police Department business alert, merchants in the 012th, 014th, 018th, and 019th Districts have been the target of violent thieves who brandish weapons, issue chilling commands, and make off with cash and goods. With a total of five reported incidents all unfolding in the early hours of March 5, authorities are cautioning area establishments to stay vigilant.
In each incident, a band of four armed men, described as African American and between the ages of 16 and 25, storm the stores wearing black ski masks and dark clothing. Displaying handguns and a rifle, they demand that staff and patrons comply with heart-dropping demands like "HANDS UP, OPEN THE REGISTERS" or "EMPTY YOUR POCKETS AND GET ON THE GROUND." After looting the register and taking liquor or tobacco from the shelves, the offenders focus on personal items, forcefully seizing cash and cellphones from clerks and customers before fleeing the scene.
The crime spree kicked off at 2401 N Milwaukee Ave and spanned several other locations including Damen, Diversey, and Halsted streets, as well as S Aberdeen St, all victims of theft within a span of just over an hour. Merchants and the community are rattled by the audacity of the criminals and the precision of the attacks, fearing when and where they might strike next. The offenders have been seen leaving the scenes in a stolen light blue Infiniti with Illinois license plate EH77922.
The Chicago Police Department is taking these attacks seriously, mobilizing forces and asking the public for any information that can lead to the arrest of the individuals responsible for these harrowing robberies. While the police work tirelessly to track down the stolen vehicle and identify the masked assailants, they're urging businesses to exercise increased caution and to report any suspicious activity that could help bring the perpetrators to justice.
