Chicago police have issued a warning to residents and visitors in River North about a series of robberies targeting late-night bar patrons. The perpetrators, described as groups of men, have been pretending to be friendly strangers before attacking and robbing their victims. This is the second warning issued by CPD regarding this crime pattern since mid-July.
According to the latest community alert released on Friday evening, there have been at least eight incidents since mid-June where groups of three to five men have targeted intoxicated individuals leaving bars and restaurants in the early morning hours. The robbers reportedly approach their victims in a friendly manner, engage in small talk, and then suddenly attack by striking them with their fists before stealing their belongings.
The robbery series seems to be concentrated in River North’s nightlife district, particularly between 12 a.m. and 3 a.m. when bars are closing. The following are the eight robberies linked to this crime pattern:
– 400 block of North Wabash on June 16 at 1:00 a.m.
– 600 block of North Dearborn on June 22 at 3:00 a.m.
– 600 block of North Wabash on June 28 at 12:00 a.m.
– 400 block of North State on July 6 at 2:00 a.m.
– 700 block of North LaSalle on July 15 at 2:30 a.m.
– 200 block of West Ontario on July 20 at 2:00 a.m.
– 100 block of East Illinois on August 1 at 12:30 a.m.
– 300 block of East Illinois on August 3 at 1:40 a.m.
In each of these cases, the attackers were described as Black men between the ages of 20 and 40, usually operating in groups of three to five. Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact Area 3 detectives at 312-744-8263 or submit an anonymous tip at CPDTIP.com using reference number P25-3-033.
This warning serves as a reminder for residents and visitors to remain vigilant, especially when leaving bars or restaurants late at night. It is essential to be cautious of strangers approaching in a friendly manner and to take necessary precautions to ensure personal safety.
CWBChicago, a reliable source for original public safety reporting in Chicago, continues to provide detailed coverage of incidents like these to keep the community informed and safe. For more information and updates on this story and others, visit CWBChicago.com.
