Chicago police are warning River North residents and visitors about a string of robberies in which groups of men have preyed on late-night bar patrons by pretending to be friendly strangers before beating and robbing them. It’s the second warning CPD has released about the crime pattern since mid-July.
The latest community alert, issued Friday evening, details at least eight incidents since mid-June in which groups of three to five men allegedly targeted intoxicated people leaving bars and restaurants in the early morning hours.
Police said the robbers approach victims in a “friendly manner,” engage in small talk, and then suddenly attack, striking victims with their fists before stealing their belongings.
The robbery series appears to be concentrated in River North’s nightlife district, often in the 12 a.m. to 3 a.m. window when bars are closing.
CPD has linked these eight robberies to the crime pattern:
- 400 block of North Wabash — June 16 at 1:00 a.m.
- 600 block of North Dearborn — June 22 at 3:00 a.m.
- 600 block of North Wabash — June 28 at 12:00 a.m.
- 400 block of North State — July 6 at 2:00 a.m.
- 700 block of North LaSalle — July 15 at 2:30 a.m.
- 200 block of West Ontario — July 20 at 2:00 a.m.
- 100 block of East Illinois — August 1 at 12:30 a.m.
- 300 block of East Illinois — August 3 at 1:40 a.m.
In each case, police said the attackers were described as Black men between 20 and 40 years old, usually operating in groups of three to five.
Authorities are urging anyone with information to call Area 3 detectives at 312-744-8263 or submit an anonymous tip at CPDTIP.com using reference number P25-3-033.
