Chicago is grappling with a disturbing trend as city police have issued an alert concerning a man impersonating a rideshare driver and sexually assaulting women in the Gold Coast and Near North neighborhoods. According to a report by the Chicago Sun-Times, the suspect is picking up victims in a midsize black SUV, different from the vehicles they arranged through their rideshare apps. The most recent assault was reported to have happened on July 19, around 2 a.m., with the first crime dating back to March 30.
The assailant is described as a male, aged between 35 to 45, with a heavy build. The Chicago police are actively seeking information from the public that could lead to his apprehension. Encouraging rideshare users to be vigilant, authorities have reminded the public to verify both the driver's picture and license plate number with the details provided in the rideshare app before getting into a vehicle, as reported by NBC Chicago. This precaution comes in the wake of the two confirmed assaults, though the authorities suggest there could be more victims yet to come forward.
Details about the incidents reveal that the first recorded assault occurred at approximately 5 a.m. on March 30 along North Lake Shore Drive near East Cedar Street. Offering details of the perpetrator's vehicle will hopefully aid in preventing further attacks. Police have indicated the suspect's chosen location for the second reported assault was around the 1500 block of North Wells Street, near the intersection with West North Avenue.
The Chicago police have not only increased patrols in the affected areas but are also collaborating with rideshare companies to bolster safety measures. If you have information regarding the crimes, authorities urge you to contact Area Three detectives at 312-744-8261. Anonymous tips can be submitted online with reference numbers JJ200277 or JJ340067. In these precarious times, it behooves everyone to stay aware of their surroundings and take the necessary precautions.
