Residents in the New City neighborhood within the 9th (Deering) District are on alert following a string of burglaries from motor vehicles. The Chicago Police Department has issued a warning via their official community alert, reporting that an unknown individual has been targeting work vehicles, specifically removing tools and making off with them in a luxury getaway car.
The reported incidents took place on the 4200 block of S. Racine on May 10 at 10 a.m., and the 1100 block of W. Pershing on May 15 at 8:20 a.m. In a striking detail, the suspect is believed to have fled in a dark blue or gray Mercedes SUV. The Chicago Police Department has gone on to fully describe the suspect: an African American male, standing between 5'7"-5'9", and weighing approximately 200 lbs, with short black hair, and was last seen wearing a T-shirt with white lettering, blue jeans, and blue/white gym shoes.
While the investigation continues, the police are urging community members to take some proactive measures to protect their property. They advise always keeping vehicles locked with windows rolled up, especially when the car is unoccupied. Valuables should be kept out of sight to not attract potential thieves. The community alert also encourages anyone who witnesses suspicious activity to not only report it immediately but also to avoid dangerously pursuing any suspects. Instead, they're to provide detailed information to the authorities, as per the CPD.
Additional recommendations include preserving any available video surveillance, gathering contact information from witnesses, and ensuring not to disturb any potential evidence should one's vehicle be burglarized—instead, call the police immediately. In the event one becomes a victim, the alert firmly suggests to "immediately dial 9-1-1 and remain on the scene when possible," as stated by the CPD.
