9 robberies reported in 1 hour in northwest Chicago – NBC Chicago

Chicago police are investigating after a number of armed robberies occurred in just over an hour on Sunday morning.

A total of nine attacks took place in the neighborhoods of Bucktown, West Town, Logan Square and Avondale. In one case, a victim was struck in the head with an offender’s gun. Police are asking residents to be vigilant as the suspects have still not been arrested.

“Try not to go out after 9 p.m.…um…never get involved in a confrontation. »

This is how Bucktown resident Oliver Giles tries to stay safe in his neighborhood. NBC Chicago caught up with him running with his dog. Giles said he was unaware he was near where one of the nine robberies took place the day before.

“It’s not something you think about too much,” Giles said. “You never think it’s going to be you, do you?” Stories like this always give you pause to think, make you think, and try to plan ahead.

The nine armed robberies occurred in an hour beginning at 12:27 a.m. in the 2000 block of West Webster Avenue. Just three minutes later, in the 1200 block of North Damen Avenue, another incident alarmed a couple we spoke with.

“It’s frightening!” said Ernesto Palacios. ” Be careful ! We must be careful ! We must be aware! Look everywhere! 360 view!”

The couple say they are not taking any risks and are taking the necessary steps to protect themselves.

“I carry a knife with me just in case someone tries to rob me or do anything to me because I’m a girl so that’s different!” said Hana Angel.

“I’m trying to get my hidden carry!” said Palacios.

The crime spree continued until at least 1:30 a.m. In each incident, four armed suspects, between the ages of 15 and 21 and wearing black hoodies and black ski masks, approached their victims, pointed weapons and demanded their belongings.

In the aftermath of the violence, Angel and Palacios changed the way they got around the city.

“We try to carry as little as possible,” they said. “I go out with just my wallet. Just credit cards, debit cards. No money! You have no money, they give up.

If you find yourself in such a situation, police say to stay calm, call 911 immediately, and remember any descriptions of the suspects. In the meantime, if you know anything about these incidents since early Sunday morning, you can submit a tip online at cpdtip.com.