String of Armed Robberies on South Side Prompt Police Warning

Chicago police are asking residents to be particularly cognizant of their surroundings in the wake of a string of armed robberies on the city's far South Side.

Department officials issued an alert on Friday to those living within the 6th police district, which comprises the Gresham community. The armed robberies occurred between July 16 and 19.

"In these incidents, two to three unknown male black offenders approached the victim(s), displayed a handgun and demanded money or anything of value," police said.

The robberies have occurred at the following locations and times:

• At 4:30 a.m. on Saturday, July 16, in the 8000 block of South Vincennes Avenue.
• Around 9 p.m. on Saturday, July 16, in the 7900 block of South Vincennes Avenue.
• Shortly before 4:30 a.m. on Tuesday, July 19 in the 7900 block of South Vincennes Avenue.
• At about 3:40 a.m. on Tuesday, July 19 in the 100 block of East 79th Street.

Police say the offenders may be driving a silver van or black sport utility vehicle. They are described as three black men who are between 20 and 30 years old. They range in height from about 5 feet, 10 inches tall to about 6 feet, 7 inches tall and range in weight from 140 to 230 pounds.

Authorities are urging residents to take extra precautions, including:

• Always be aware of your surroundings
• Report suspicious activity immediately
• If you are confronted by an assailant, remain calm
• Remember any unique physical characteristics
• Never pursue a fleeing assailant, provide information to the police
• If approached by a witness to the incident, request his or her information
• Dial 911 immediately and remain on scene, when possible

Anyone with information about these robberies is asked to call the department's Bureau of Detectives –
Area South Property Crimes at 312-747- 8273. The reference RD#s are: HZ-352548, HZ-351083, HZ-354850 & HZ-354878.