The Chicago Police Department has issued a business alert after a series of armed robberies in the Back of the Yards neighborhood. Local businesses have been targeted by an armed individual who demands cash from employees or cashiers. According to the alert, which was posted on the Chicago Police Department’s website, two incidents have been reported so far — one on the 4900 block of S Ashland Ave on December 6 at approximately 5:58 P.M., and another on the 2000 block of W 51st St on December 12 at around 3:39 PM.
The suspect involved in the armed robberies is described as an African-American offender, notably shorter and heavyset, roughly 5’6″ in height and weighing approximately 230lbs. The department, while investigating the incidents, advises the community to be vigilant and to report any suspicious activity immediately. During the robberies, the assailant was driving a dark-colored SUV or crossover, which could be a Chevy Equinox, making their getaway after confronting the employees.
The Chicago Police Department urges anyone confronted by the assailant to remain calm and try to remember any distinctive physical characteristics that could help identify the offender, such as scars, limps, acne, or specific dental features. Business owners are encouraged to save and provide any video surveillance footage to the authorities to aid in the ongoing investigation. “If you are confronted by an assailant remain calm,” the department advises, underscoring the importance of safety over pursuing the perpetrator.
Local area businesses, as well as witnesses who might have been approached by the suspect, are asked to come forward with any pertinent information. They should “immediately dial 9-1-1 and remain on the scene when possible,” as stated in the alert. As part of community safety measures, the police have emphasized the significance of collecting contact information from any witnesses to the incident. The Chicago Police Department’s notice concluded with a general call to residents to always be aware of their surroundings as a fundamental measure of preventive vigilance.
