Carjackers Snag 7 Vehicles in 1 Day From Chicago's North, West Neighborhoods

CHICAGO - In the wake of a string of carjackings, Chicago police are reminding residents to secure their vehicles, even if they are quickly running into a store or coffee shop.

All seven of the crimes occurred on April 28 in the city's 12th, 14th, 18th and 19th police districts, according to a community alert. While most of the vehicles were stolen when left running and unattended, one involved an armed robber.

The following list includes the locations where the unoccupied, unsecured vehicles were stolen on Friday:

• 9:45 a.m. in the 800 block of North Michigan Avenue
• 10:20 a.m. in the 700 block of West Wabansia Avenue
• 11:19 a.m. in the 700 block of West Hubbard Street
• 6:45 p.m. in the 1900 block of North Lincoln Avenue
• 2:46 p.m. in the 3500 block of North Clark Street
• 7:05 p.m. in the 700 block of North Armour Street

The armed vehicular hijacking occurred shortly after 9 p.m. on Friday in the 1300 block of North Bosworth Avenue — the city's Pulaski Park neighborhood, just east of Wicker Park. Police say the offender held the driver at gunpoint. The suspect is described as a black man who was last seen wearing a black or grey hooded sweatshirt.

Police are urging residents to be aware of their surroundings, alert neighbors about the crimes, and to report any suspicious activity or loiterers.

Anyone with information about last week's incidents should call the Area North Bureau of Detectives at 312-744-8263.