CPD Warn of South Side Residential Burglaries Targeting Elderly Residents

CHICAGO (WGN) – Chicago police are warning the public after a series of residential burglaries on the South Side targeting elderly residents.

Locations and Times of Burglaries

Police said the burglaries happened at the following times and locations:

• 3600 block of South Maplewood Ave on August 5, 2025 at 4:38 P.M. (Brighton Park)
• 4200 block of South California Ave on August 8, 2025 at 3:10 P.M. (Brighton Park)
• 2800 block of South Pitney Ct on August 9, 2025 at 5:00 P.M. (Bridgeport)
• 3300 block of South Seeley Ave on August 12, 2025 at 1:43 P.M. (McKinley Park)
• 2600 block of South Shields Ave on August 14, 2025 at 10:00 P.M. (Armour Square)

Methods Used by Suspects

According to police, the suspects either create a situation to get the victim(s) to come out of their homes (example: saying they hit the victim’s garage door with their vehicle), distract the victims (such as by engaging in conversation), or wait for the victims to come out of their homes for whatever reason.
Vehicle, driver sought in connection with deadly South Side hit-and-run crash
Police said additional suspects then go inside the homes and take items such as guns, money and/or valuables. The suspects also reportedly targeted a home while the victims were out of town.

Suspect Descriptions

Detectives described the suspects as two women and two men. One of the men was described as wearing a gray shirt and blue jeans, while the other man was wearing an American flag ski mask, white t-shirt, black pants and black boots.
Detailed descriptions on the other three suspects were not available, but police did say one woman is about 5 feet tall, weighing about 120 pounds and having brown eyes, black hair and a short hair style, while the other woman is described as 5 feet, 3 inches tall with hazel eyes.
The other man was described as wearing a gray shirt and blue jeans.
Police also said the suspects were traveling in a white van or a gray pickup truck, both without license plates.
Read more: Latest Chicago news and headlines

How to Report Information

Anyone with information is asked to call Area One Detectives at 312-747-8380 or submit an anonymous tip at CPDTIP.com and use reference #P25-1-092.

Additional Tips from CPD

• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Be cautious of persons engaging you in conversation to lure you from your residence.
• Keep the perimeter of your property well lit.
• Keep doors/windows secured/locked.
• Immediately repair any broken windows, doors or locks.
• Immediately report suspicious activity.
• Never pursue a fleeing assailant, provide the information to the police.
• If video surveillance is available, save a copy of the incident for investigating detectives.
• If approached by a witness to the incident, request their contact information.
• If you are a victim do not touch anything, call police immediately.
• Immediately dial 9-1-1 and remain on the scene when possible.

Conclusion

The Chicago Police Department is urging residents, especially the elderly, to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity to prevent further burglaries. By being aware of their surroundings and taking necessary precautions, residents can help protect themselves and their properties.

FAQs

Q: What areas have been targeted by the burglaries?
A: The burglaries have occurred in the Brighton Park, Bridgeport, McKinley Park, and Armour Square neighborhoods on the South Side.
Q: What methods have the suspects used to gain access to homes?
A: The suspects have created situations to get victims to come out of their homes, distracted victims, or waited for victims to come out of their homes.
Q: What items have been stolen during the burglaries?
A: The suspects have taken items such as guns, money, and valuables.
Q: How can I report information about the burglaries?
A: You can call Area One Detectives at 312-747-8380 or submit an anonymous tip at CPDTIP.com and use reference #P25-1-092.