CHICAGO — A string of armed robberies targeting local businesses has put the Irving Park neighborhood on high alert after two incidents were reported within 24 hours in the city’s 17th Police District, authorities said.
The Chicago Police Department (CPD) issued a formal business alert after two masked men armed with a handgun robbed storefronts on North Kimball Avenue and West Irving Park Road. In both cases, the offenders threatened staff, demanded money from cash registers, and fled before police arrived.
Two Armed Robberies, Two Nights Apart
According to CPD’s incident bulletin, the first robbery occurred at approximately 9:55 p.m. on June 13 in the 4300 block of North Kimball Avenue. A second robbery was reported the next evening, June 14 at 10:05 p.m., in the 3300 block of West Irving Park Road.
Both robberies involved two Hispanic males, dressed in dark clothing, face masks, and gloves. One suspect reportedly acted as the lookout, while the other entered the stores and brandished a handgun at employees, forcing them to hand over cash.
No injuries have been reported in either case, and no arrests had been made as of Monday evening.
No Vehicle Seen, Suspects Fled on Foot
Police noted that no getaway vehicle was observed in either incident, suggesting the suspects may be operating on foot or using alleyways to evade capture. Surveillance footage from the targeted locations is currently under review.
Authorities have not released any suspect sketches but have asked the public and nearby businesses to report any suspicious individuals or behaviors, particularly if seen loitering before closing hours.
Police Urge Caution, Coordination Among Businesses
CPD is encouraging all store owners in the area to:
- Maintain active security camera systems
- Limit large cash amounts after dark
- Stay in contact with neighboring businesses
- Report any loitering or masked individuals immediately
“Please do not attempt to confront or pursue suspects,” the department stated. “Instead, focus on getting descriptions and notifying 911 as quickly as possible.”
A copy of the official CPD business alert is available at chicagopolice.org.
Own or Work in Irving Park? Stay Alert and Connected
If you operate a storefront in Irving Park or nearby, stay in touch with your block’s safety network. Have security footage or info about the suspects? Report tips to CPD or share safety concerns at ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com — we’re amplifying local voices to help keep our neighborhoods safe.
