Rideshare drivers in Chicago's Grand Crossing neighborhood are on high alert after a series of thefts and robberies perpetrated by opportunistic criminals posing as customers. According to a community alert issued by the Chicago Police Department, these incidents have been occurring since August and have continued into September.
The typical modus operandi involves one or two male suspects, between the ages of 12 to 25, hailing a rideshare vehicle and then asking to use the driver's cell phone under the pretext of making a call. The suspects, who are described as wearing hooded sweatshirts, snatch the phone and flee on foot. In at least three instances, a firearm was brandished to intimidate the victims, according to the alert. The affected areas, mainly along South Crandon Avenue and South Exchange Avenue, have witnessed multiple incidents at various hours, indicating that the perpetrators' operation is not confined to the cover of darkness but is brazenly carried out throughout the day.
The police are warning rideshare drivers and residents in the 003rd District to maintain vigilance and report any suspicious activity immediately. The emphasis is on personal safety; if confronted, individuals are encouraged to remain calm and make mental notes of any distinctive features of the assailants. The alert also advised to avoid chasing suspects and instead, provide details to the police. Persons who witness such incidents are urged to come forward and provide their contact information to aid in the investigation.
Incidents have been reported at multiple times, including 12:03 A.M., and 10:30 A.M. on August 30th on the 6700 and 6800 blocks of South Crandon Ave., respectively. They continued with similar patterns of crime on South Crandon Ave. and South Exchange Ave. through early September, with the latest incident occurring on today at 4:22 A.M. on the 7200 block of South Exchange Ave. Residents and drivers alike are asked to dial 9-1-1 immediately during such encounters and, if it's safe, to remain at the scene until police arrive to provide a full account of the event.
