Chicago residents in the 22nd District have been alerted to a series of recent armed robberies targeting local businesses. The Chicago Police Department has issued a community alert detailing the incidents where an unidentified male has been entering retail stores, producing a firearm, and demanding cash from workers.
According to the Chicago Police Department's notice, the robberies occurred on three separate occasions in May. The first incident took place in the 9300 block of S Ashland on May 9 at 7:52 PM. The subsequent occurrences were both in the 1700 block of W 87th St, one on May 15 at 5:02 PM and the other on May 21 at 11:47 PM.
The suspect has been described as a male wearing a mask, a light-colored hooded sweatshirt or a dark jacket, and carrying a book bag or backpack. He was armed with either a handgun or a rifle during these incidents. While the description is broad, the police are requesting that citizens remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
The Police Department's advice for those who find themselves in a dangerous situation is to stay calm and observe any distinctive physical features of the offender that could later aid in identification. The public should not chase after the fleeing offender but should instead provide all relevant information to the authorities. If any video surveillance captures the incident, business owners should preserve a copy for police investigation. In case witnesses are present, their contact information could be valuable, and individuals are encouraged to dial 9-1-1 immediately and stay on the scene if it's safe.
