Citizens in Chicago's 1st, 2nd, and 6th districts are on high alert after a series of early-morning carjackings and armed robberies. The Chicago Police Department issued a community alert following the incidents, which targeted individuals as they were entering their vehicles, either alone on the street or at gas stations. According to the alert, the offenders, identified as three African American male teens wielding firearms, forcibly demanded the victims' property, including car keys, before making off with their vehicles.
The crimes occurred within hours of each other on April 11, starting at 4:21 A.M. on the 300 Block of South Dearborn St. and continuing to the 7900 Block of South Peoria St., where the last recorded incident took place at 10:25 A.M. Victims were approached by the thieves, who used stolen vehicles for their getaway, including a white Chrysler 300, white Nissan Altima, and black Nissan Altima and a white Chevy Impala. In a move reflective of the brazenness of the age, the teens did not hesitate to display their handguns in broad daylight.
As per the Chicago Police Department's release, the suspects are described as slim young men, aged between 16 and 18 years old. The police are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. People confronted by the assailants are advised to remain calm and take note of any distinguishing features that could aid in identification.
The department's guidelines also suggest victims or witnesses should not pursue fleeing suspects but should instead dial 9-1-1 immediately, provide as much information as possible, and, if approached by a witness to the incident, request their contact information. The series of violent thefts has rattled residents, and the police are requesting the cooperation of the community in apprehending the young men responsible. The police's community alert emphasizes the importance of being aware of one's surroundings, a now necessary precaution as these perpetrators remain at large.
