Three armed stickups in less than four hours have rattled Chicago’s North Side, with police warning that the suspects may be barely old enough to drive. The first holdup hit Lincoln Park on Monday night, followed by two more early Tuesday in Lake View East. No arrests have been announced, and detectives say the investigation is very much active.
According to CBS Chicago, the first robbery happened around 8:40 p.m. Monday in the 2600 block of North Clark Street in Lincoln Park. Two more robberies were reported almost back-to-back, at 12:13 a.m. and 12:15 a.m. Tuesday, in the 3200 and 3400 blocks of North Broadway in Lake View East. In each case, police told CBS Chicago that one or two suspects in dark clothing and ski masks pulled a black handgun and demanded cellphones, wallets, or purses. The suspects are believed to be between 13 and 16 years old.
The latest incidents fit into a broader pattern of late-night robberies on the Near North Side this year, including a string of cases around DePaul University and Lake View that triggered community alerts and the release of surveillance video. ABC7 Chicago reported that earlier sprees prompted calls for more patrols and safety briefings. Neighborhood groups and campus officials have been urging residents and students to keep phones stowed when walking and to share any video evidence with police.
Police Description And How To Tip
Investigators are asking North Side residents to stay alert, report suspicious activity, and, if victimized, remain on the scene and call 911 so officers can respond quickly. CBS Chicago notes that anyone with information can contact Area 3 detectives at 312-744-8263 or submit an anonymous tip at CPDTIP.com using reference number P253050. Detectives say they do not yet have detailed identifying information on the suspects as the probe continues.
Precautions For Neighbors And Businesses
Police say neighbors can cut their risk by traveling in groups when possible, sticking to well-lit routes, and keeping valuables out of sight while walking at night. Chicago Police community alerts typically urge residents and business owners to save any relevant surveillance footage and pass it along to detectives. Storefronts in Lake View and Lincoln Park are being asked to review recordings around the listed times and provide timestamps or clips that might help track the suspects.
Area 3 detectives say even small details can matter, and they are asking anyone who saw something unusual to speak up. Residents are urged to stay aware and report suspicious behavior to law enforcement so officers can follow up.
