Chicago, Illinois – Multiple students fell victim to armed robberies near the University of Chicago campus on Wednesday afternoon, sparking safety concerns among the student population. The incidents occurred just minutes apart, leaving students on edge and authorities on high alert.
In the first robbery, which took place around 2:50 p.m. on the 5600 block of South University, two students were approached by four armed suspects who demanded their belongings before fleeing the scene in a black Infiniti car. Five minutes later, another student was targeted in the 1300 block of East 56th Street by two armed suspects who also demanded property before making their escape in a black vehicle.
Despite the brazen nature of the crimes, none of the students were physically harmed during the encounters. One of the victims, identified as Maddi, bravely fought back against her attacker, managing to disarm him and escape unharmed. She emphasized the importance of finding and apprehending the suspects to prevent future attacks.
The University of Chicago issued a safety alert in response to the robberies, assuring students that increased patrols will be implemented in the area. The Chicago Police Department also issued a warning regarding recent armed robberies in the Hyde Park neighborhood, urging residents to remain vigilant.
Students living on campus expressed their concerns over the proximity of the crimes to their living and studying spaces, with many highlighting the unusual occurrence of such incidents on campus grounds. The escalating trend of armed robberies in the area has raised alarm bells among the student community, prompting discussions on safety measures and prevention strategies.
While authorities continue their search for the suspects involved in the recent string of robberies, students are being urged to remain cautious and report any suspicious activity to the police. The incidents have served as a sobering reminder of the importance of personal safety and vigilance, particularly in urban areas prone to criminal activity.