Chicago businesses in the Loop and Prairie District are on high alert after a pair of armed robberies took place recently, striking a note of concern among local proprietors. According to the Chicago Police Department's Business Alert, the two incidents involved offenders who, after receiving services at nail spas, attacked employees with a chemical irritant and stole property, including money, handbags, and cell phones.
The first of these brazen crimes occurred last Wednesday in the 300 block of S. Dearborn, followed closely by another on Sunday in the 1600 block of S. Michigan. These robberies not only shook the victims but also prompted a wider conversation about safety among neighborhood business owners. The suspects are described as an African American female, between 20-30 years old, around 5'5" in height and weighing 220-240 pounds, and an African American male, estimated to be 30-35 years old, approximately 5'10", 160-180 lbs., and with a noticeable physical impairment on his right hand, as detailed by the Chicago Police Department.
With these violent crimes at their doorstep, the police are urging local businesses to remain vigilant and proactively safeguard their premises, stressing the importance of operational surveillance systems. They also advise those confronted by an assailant to stay calm and prioritize their safety over confrontation. In the event of a crime, witnesses and victims should call 911 immediately, providing a detailed description of the perpetrator(s) and any vehicles involved, as per the Chicago Police Department. Witnesses to incidents are furthermore asked to stay on scene if possible or at least provide contact information to law enforcement, while the Chicago Police are clear in instructing never to chase a fleeing suspect, leaving that part to the professionals armed with the information necessary to track down those responsible for these callous acts.
