Chicago

Serial Vehicular Hijackings in Grand Crossing Prompt Investigation

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Published on January 01, 2025
Serial Vehicular Hijackings in Grand Crossing Prompt InvestigationSource: Olga Ernst, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Chicago Police Department has issued a community alert regarding a series of vehicular hijackings that have taken place in the city's Grand Crossing neighborhood. These incidents are currently under investigation by authorities in the 3rd District.

In these recent occurrences, a female offender has targeted individuals either inside or near their vehicles. The suspicious figure confronted victims with a handgun and then proceeded to steal their vehicles. The crimes in question took place on the 6900 block of S. Paxton Avenue on December 16, 2024, at 12:59 A.M., the 2000 block of E. 70th Street on December 21, 2024, at 1:05 A.M., and the 6400 block of S. Maryland Avenue on December 28, 2024, at 8:45 P.M.

Details from the police describe the offender as an African-American female, who has been seen wearing a red coat with fur on the hood, or a dark-colored hooded sweatshirt and ski mask. The investigations into the hijackings are focused around these specified areas in the South Shore neighborhood.

To assist in the prevention and prompt response to such crimes, the Chicago Police Department advises the public to always be alert of their surroundings and report any activities that they deem suspicious immediately. If confronted by an assailant, they should remain calm and try to memorize any unique physical characteristics of the assailant, which can aid in the investigation. Should a vehicle be stolen, it is important not to pursue the assailant but instead, provide all information to the police. In case witnesses are present, obtaining their contact information is encouraged. In all instances, individuals should dial 9-1-1 as soon as it is safe to do so and, if possible, stay on the scene until authorities arrive.

Those with any information related to these incidents are urged to come forward to assist in the current ongoing investigations. The community's cooperation and vigilance are key in addressing and preventing further occurrences of vehicular hijackings in the area.