Police warn of violent muggings in Wicker Park

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Chicago police are warning residents in the Wicker Park neighborhood about a group of men who are assaulting and robbing people in the early morning hours.

Police said there have been at least two incidents in recent days. The first occurred in the 1700-block of North Milwaukee Avenue and the second took place three days later in the 1700-block of West North Avenue.

People who are familiar with the streets in Chicago's Wicker Park neighborhood say there are certain times that you just don't go out alone.

"I've heard here and there of unsafe things happening," said Rachel Van Laanen, who lives in Wicker Park.

"I don't walk anywhere at 2:00 in the morning by myself," said Laura Denny, another Wicker Park resident.

Police say a group of three black men in their 20s, one with blonde dreadlocks, are targeting people walking alone between 4 a.m. and 5 a.m., punching and hitting victims then going through their pockets.

Police say the first mugging happened April 11 along North Milwaukee near a spa. Three days later, the suspects did the same thing to a person walking along West North Avenue and Paulina. The news is putting some on edge.

"Probably keep a knife with me. (Really? You'd arm yourself?) Yes, definitely," said Alex Carlson, who was visiting Wicker Park.

Others we spoke to said they are going to be more aware of their surroundings, avoid listening to music, and stick to walking alone during daylight hours.

Police want to remind you that if you are ever attacked, don't chase after the person - call 911. If you have any information on these crimes, Area North detectives ask that you contact them at 312-744-8263.