Police Prowl for Clown Mask-Wearing Robber, 2 Accomplices

Chicago Police are searching for three men—at least one of whom wears a clown mask—they believe to be behind two recent robberies in Lake View.

In both early-morning Sept. 21 incidents the trio has robbed a resident at gunpoint, taking cell phones, purses, wallets and cash, police said.

"In one case, the citizens were ordered to kneel on the ground," police said. "One citizen sustained a bruise after reportedly being struck by the gunman who wore a clown mask to conceal his identity."

The offenders are described as black men, possibly in their 20s. They all stand between 5 feet 8 inches and 6 feet 1 inch tall.

"All wore hooded sweatshirts," police said. "One of the offenders was said to be wearing a clown mask, another may have been wearing a ski mask or scarf to conceal his identity."

Officers are reminding residents to always be aware of their surroundings; report any suspicious people or vehicles in the area; remain calm if confronted by an assailant; remember any unique physical characteristics such as scars, teeth or acne; never pursue a fleeing suspect; ask for contact information if approached by a witness and pay attention to loiterers. 

The department's 19th district provides police protection on Chicago's north side, from Lawrence Avenue on the north, Fullerton Avenue on the south, the Chicago River on the west and Lake Michigan on the east. 

Anyone with information about the armed robberies is asked to call the Bureau of Detectives, Area North at 312-744-8263. Anonymous Tips can be submitted to TIPSOFT.COM using the reference identifiers of HW-460661 and HW-460672, P13-N-145.