Chicago crime: 7 armed robberies happen within 3 hours across several neighborhoods, police say

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Seven armed robberies happened within three hours Saturday morning across neighborhoods on Chicago's North and West sides, police said.

In each incident, three or four men, armed with semi-automatic handguns, approached the victims and demanded their property before fleeing in a stolen vehicle, police said.

Police said the robberies happened between 5:30 a.m. and 8:30 a.m. in the city's Bucktown, Lakeview, East Ukrainian Village, Little Italy and Tri-Taylor neighborhoods.

The robberies happened at the following locations and times:

• 1600 block of West North Ave at 5:30 a.m.

• 1600 block of North Wolcott Ave at 6:00 a.m.

• 900 block of North Winchester Ave at 6:25 a.m.

• 1200 block of North Paulina St at 6:30 a.m.

• 700 block of South Laflin St at 7:00 a.m.

• 1900 block of North Wolcott Ave at 7:08 a.m.

• 800 block of South Bell Ave at 8:23 a.m.

People who live nearby said they feel helpless when they hear of crimes like these because they're simply happening everywhere.

They said they are left wondering how to avoid becoming the next victim.

"It's really difficult to hear because it's one of those things that it's become so constant, you're almost numb to it. Always, always keep your head on a swivel. Try to stay aware and be off your phone, but there's not really much else you can really do,' said Andy Schumacher, who lives in Bucktown. "It's not like it's specific to any particular areas. There's nothing you can really avoid."

The suspects are described as men between 20 and 25 years old who wore dark clothing and ski masks.

Police are asking people to be aware of their surroundings and if you've seen anything or know anything, contact Area Three or Area Five detectives at 312-744-8263 or Area Five detectives at 312-746-7394.

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