Seniors beaten by robbers in Northwest Side home, police say
CHICAGO (WLS) -- An 81-year-old man and a 77-year-old woman were robbed late Thursday night during a violent home invasion on Chicago's Northwest Side, police said.
The attack is the latest in a string of home invasions on the city's northwest side. The two other home invasions were reported in the 800-block of West Nelson Street and the 4100-block of North Avers Avenue, police said.
Attackers dressed in black, hooded sweatshirts allegedly broke into a residence in the 5400-block of West Henderson Street in Chicago's Belmont Cragin neighborhood just after 11:45 p.m.
Police said one or more suspects struck the man and woman in the face, grabbed a purse and ran from the home, headed south.
The victims were transported in good condition to Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center.
Neighbors said the couple has lived in the quiet area for a long time. They were stunned when they heard about the attack.
"To find out this has happened is unbelievable," said Ron Donpke, a neighbor.
Alderman Ariel Reboyras (30th Ward) said the couple, Robert and Joan Ott are very well known in the neighborhood.
"Really nice people. I'm just shocked that this happens," Reboyras said.
Anna Baros, another neighbor, said Robert Ott recently had heart surgery and could barely move around. She said the couple even asked her to bring them communion every Sunday.
"He has fallen down three times in the last month because of his inability to walk. That that should happen to that person is just sad," Baros said.
A frustrated community activist canvassed the neighborhood Friday morning, handing out fliers to find out if anyone saw anything.
"Punks and cowards. We got enough gun violence, now you want come in and take advantage of two seniors in their home, something they worked for and something that don't belong to you?" said Andrew Holmes, anti-violence activist.
Area North detectives are investigating. Police said they are looking for at least one suspect. No one is in custody.
