Residents in the Harrison and Ogden neighborhoods are on high alert following a string of violent armed robberies reported by the Chicago Police Department. Details shared by the CPD's Community Alert signal a pattern of aggression that has escalated into shootings, with assailants confronting victims on foot.
The incidents, which are described as aggravated battery and armed robbery, have been linked by both time and method of operation. Spanning back to February 20, they took an alarming turn as in one instance, as reported by the CPD, "two offenders' approach two victims," leading to gunfire after a brief interaction. The offenders, described as African American males between 20 and 35 years of age, remain at large.
Specific incident locations noted in the alert span from the 1500 block of South Spaulding Ave to the 3800 block of West Harrison St and share troubling similarities. Victims were either engaged in conversation or approached by the assailants, demanding property or money. And when those demands were not met peacefully, shots were fired, causing injury and, in one case, resulting in a victim crashing their vehicle while trying to escape.
The police have released a detailed suspect description, encouraging community members to watch for two male subjects with dark complexions, wearing black attire with distinct white reflective emblems and sneakers. Along with a plea for vigilance, authorities urge that "Never confront the subject or pursue a fleeing assailant," and for witnesses or victims to preserve evidence and contact 911 immediately.
