A recent string of armed robberies in Lakeview and Lincoln Park has raised concerns about the presence of a robbery crew in the area. The latest incidents occurred on Wednesday night and early Thanksgiving morning, involving two gunmen targeting four individuals in three separate incidents.
The first robbery took place around 10:17 p.m. on Wednesday, when a 15-year-old boy and a 16-year-old girl were approached by two men on the 1300 block of West Eddy Street. One of the robbers brandished a firearm and demanded their belongings before fleeing in a blue sedan, potentially a Hyundai Elantra, with the victims’ phone, wallet, and purse. The offenders were described as Black males, with one wearing black clothing and the other in lighter-colored attire.
Three hours later, at around 1 a.m., another victim was robbed at gunpoint on the 400 block of West Surf Street. The perpetrators, both Black males wearing track suits, were identified as one individual in a gray outfit with dreadlocks and the other in black attire carrying the gun.
Shortly after, at 1:45 a.m., a man approached officers on the 3500 block of North Clark Street in Wrigleyville to report another armed robbery where his phone and wallet were taken. Although the exact location was unclear, the victim believed the incident occurred between Eddy Street and Newport Street.
A recent community alert issued by the police described one to two offenders in dark clothing and ski masks approaching victims in Lakeview East and Lincoln Park, pointing a handgun, and demanding phones, wallets, and purses. Similar incidents occurred earlier in the week, including three separate holdups on Monday night into Tuesday morning and a spree on November 9 involving up to three men robbing pedestrians at gunpoint.
This surge in armed robberies has sparked concern among residents and law enforcement, highlighting the need for increased vigilance and safety measures in these neighborhoods. As the investigation continues, authorities are urging the public to report any suspicious activity and remain cautious when out in the community.
