Residents of the Woodlawn neighborhood are on high alert following a series of armed robberies, the Chicago Police Department reports. Two recent incidents involved victims who were lured through an online marketplace, only to be met with violence. The first robbery took place on the 700 block of E. 63rd St. on July 27th at 7:30 p.m., and the second occurred on the 6300 block of S. Evans on August 15th at 4:45 p.m., according to an official community alert.
Those responsible for the crimes are described as two Black males, between the ages of 16 to 18, standing approximately 5'6"-5'8", and were last seen wearing dark clothing. Notably, both brandished a black handgun to quickly and forcibly relieve the victims of their property before fleeing the scene. Witnesses or anyone with information are strongly encouraged to be vigilant and report any similar activities to the authorities.
The Chicago Police urge citizens to always be aware of their surroundings and to report suspicious activities immediately. "If you are confronted by an assailist, remain calm," the community alert advises. Notable characteristics of the assailants, such as scars, acne, or limps, should be reported to help identify them. Residents are further advised never to pursue a fleeing assailant; instead, they should give detailed information to the police for follow-up.
For those with potential video evidence of the incidents, preserving a copy for detectives is imperative. The police also suggest that if approached by a witness, individuals should obtain their contact information. "Immediately dial 9-1-1 and remain on the scene when possible," the community alert states. Such measures are crucial in aiding law enforcement to swiftly apprehend those responsible and to potentially avoid to, sadly, see other members of the community fall victim to such egregious acts.
