Residents of the Auburn Gresham neighborhood are on high alert after a series of armed robberies were reported to the Chicago Police Department (CPD). According to a community alert issued by the CPD, several people became victims of robbery while arranging deals through an online marketplace. The incidents took place in the 6th (Gresham) District, with attackers described as one to three African American males, ranging in age from approximately 17-30 years old, wearing gray and green hooded sweatshirts, and armed with handguns.
The reported armed robberies occurred on the 500 block of E. 89th Pl., with the first incident taking place on March 29, 2025, at around 12:37 p.m., followed by another on April 21, 2025, at approximately 12:00 p.m. Victims described a scenario where the offenders would approach, announce a robbery, and forcibly take personal property before fleeing on foot. Concerned citizens can access video footage linked to the community alert for a visual account of the events.
CPD has provided guidance to residents in response to these crimes, urging people to remain vigilant about their surroundings and to report any suspicious activity immediately. If faced with an assailant, they advised maintaining a calm demeanor while also attempting to remember any distinct physical traits of the attacker. Additionally, any encounter with a witness should include requesting their contact information, and video surveillance, if available, should be preserved for detective review. CPD endorses arranging online marketplace transactions in safer venues, such as government facilities or police stations, to prevent such incidents.
CPD’s instructions include detailed actions for individuals to consider if they encounter a situation similar to what the recent victims experienced. People should never chase after a fleeing suspect, but instead, they should immediately call 9-1-1, remain on site when feasible, and relay the information to the police. In an effort to apprehend the suspects, a request has been made for anyone with information to contact the authorities.
