Residents and business owners in Chicago's South Side, Little Italy, and Auburn Gresham neighborhoods are on high alert after a string of armed robberies and vehicular hijackings shook the area. The Chicago Police Department issued a business alert notifying the public of the incidents that occurred across the 6th (Gresham) and 12th (Near North) Districts on January 4, 2025.
According to the police report, multiple offenders brandishing handguns and wearing hoodies and masks entered retail establishments and forcibly demanded property. The locations targeted on that day include the 100 block of W. 87th St., 1500 block of W. Taylor St., 900 block of W. 76th St., 8000 block of W. Halsted St. and the 100 block of W. 95th St. Not only were goods stolen, but in some cases, vehicles belonging to the stores or their patrons were also hijacked.
The police have advised the community on how to respond during such threatening situations. "Never resist a robbery. Value your life over any and all property," the alert cautioned. If individuals encounter such perilous circumstances, they are urged to note any distinct features of the assailants and to contact the police immediately without attempting to intervene. The alert also advises witnesses to secure contact information and refrain from tampering with the crime scene until authorities arrive. Businesses with video surveillance systems are instructed to preserve footage that could aid in the investigation.
Community members are encouraged to dial 9-1-1 promptly if they find themselves facing a similar threat and to "never pursue a fleeing assailant, provide the information to the police".
