Rideshare Drivers Targeted in String of Armed Robberies and Carjackings on West Side

CPD Warns of Group of Up to Six Male Teenagers Wearing Dark Clothing and Ski Masks

According to the Chicago Police Department (CPD), a group of up to six male teenagers wearing dark clothing and ski masks have been responsible for a series of armed robberies and carjackings targeting rideshare drivers on the city’s West Side. The incidents occurred since the start of the year.

How the Crimes Unfold

The suspects, who are believed to be using an app to hail rideshares, arrive at the destination and then pull out a gun or knife, putting the victim in a chokehold from behind, pinning them against the driver’s seat. The suspects then demand the victim’s personal belongings and vehicles.

Incident Locations and Times

The following incidents have been reported:

• 3500 block of W. Van Buren St. on Jan. 5 at 11:40 p.m.
• 300 block of S. St. Louis Ave. on Jan. 18 at 11:30 p.m.
• 1200 block of S. Troy St. on Jan. 19 at 2:14 a.m.
• 3300 block of W. Harrison St. on Jan. 20 at 8:53 p.m.
• 3800 block of W. Polk St. on Jan. 20 at 11:33 a.m.
• 3800 block of W. Polk St. on Jan. 25 at 12:11 a.m.
• 3500 block of W. Flournoy St. on Feb. 2 at 2:55 p.m.

CPD’s Warning and Safety Concerns

The recent string of incidents has prompted a warning from the CPD, as well as renewed lobbying efforts by the Chicago Gig Alliance to pass the proposed Chicago Rideshare Living Wage and Safety Ordinance, which aims to make ridesharing platforms safer and support drivers in earning predictable wages.

“Not only is this job dangerous, but we’re not even clearing minimum wage to do it,” said Lori Simmons, rideshare driver and lead organizer with Chicago Gig Alliance. “There are 85,000 rideshare drivers working in this city, and we can’t wait any longer for the City of Chicago to force these corporations to treat us like human beings.”

What You Can Do

If you have any information about these incidents, you can leave an anonymous tip at cpdtip.com or call Area Four Detectives at (312) 746-8253.

Conclusion

The recent string of armed robberies and carjackings targeting rideshare drivers on the West Side is a disturbing trend that highlights the need for improved safety measures and better working conditions for these essential workers.

FAQs

* What is the Chicago Rideshare Living Wage and Safety Ordinance?
The proposed ordinance aims to make ridesharing platforms safer and support drivers in earning predictable wages.
* How many rideshare drivers are working in the city?
There are 85,000 rideshare drivers working in the city.
* How can I report information about these incidents?
You can leave an anonymous tip at cpdtip.com or call Area Four Detectives at (312) 746-8253.