CHICAGO, IL — Chicago police are warning business owners and late-night diners to remain vigilant as an armed robbery crew continues a violent spree across the city. According to investigators, the group has targeted at least five locations since last week, striking popular eateries on both the North and West Sides.
The spree reached a terrifying peak on Thursday morning at Griddle 24, a well-known 24-hour diner in River North. Masked men wielding firearms stormed the establishment, according to management. The suspects didn’t just target the register; they went table-to-table, robbing patrons while they were in the middle of their meals. One employee was reportedly pistol-whipped during the encounter, though no arrests have been made.
Arturo’s Tacos Targeted in Brazen Bucktown Attempt
New security footage obtained by ABC7 captured another chilling incident at Arturo’s Tacos in Bucktown. The restaurant, a neighborhood staple since 1988, was packed to about 60% capacity during the overnight hours on Sunday when two suspects in ski masks rushed in with guns drawn.
Arturo Torres, the restaurant’s general manager, expressed deep concern for his staff and the community. “We are concerned about the safety of our employees,” Torres said. He noted that while the restaurant was full, the suspects ran straight to the register but fled empty-handed within seconds after something seemingly spooked them. They reportedly escaped in a stolen vehicle.
For Arturo’s Tacos, the incident is a disturbing anomaly. This is only the second time in nearly 40 years of operation that the restaurant has faced an armed robbery attempt. The first occurred just three years ago, signaling what Torres describes as a shift in the area’s safety.
A Growing Pattern of Violence
Chicago Police confirmed that the masked offenders appear to be a crew of two to three individuals. Their methods are consistent: they target businesses that stay open late, use stolen vehicles to flee, and do not hesitate to use physical violence or point weapons at both staff and customers.
The spree is currently linked to:
- Five armed robberies/attempts at late-night businesses.
- At least one carjacking used to facilitate the crimes.
- Incidents spanning from Sunday to Thursday in River North, Bucktown, and surrounding areas.
Small Businesses Feel the Toll
Beyond the immediate danger, local owners worry about the long-term economic impact of the crime wave. Torres noted that after the suspects fled, customers were seen ducking under tables for safety.
“I don’t know if they’re going to want to come back, because now they see it’s crime in the area,” Torres said. “So, it affects us. It affects our living.” Other nearby businesses, including a 7-Eleven on Damen Avenue, have also reportedly been hit recently, leading residents to fear that the crew is systematically moving through specific corridors.
Police Guidance
Chicago Police have not yet taken anyone into custody. They are asking anyone with information or additional surveillance footage to come forward. Business owners are encouraged to keep their premises well-lit and to ensure their security systems are fully functional.
What do you think, Chicago? Are you changing your late-night dining habits because of this recent spike in robberies? Does your neighborhood feel less safe than it did a few years ago?
Share your thoughts in the comments below and stay safe out there.
