Thieves Targeting Pizza Delivery Drivers in Chicago's Washington Park

Police warn of two recent robberies where suspects used counterfeit money and threats of violence to steal food.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 1:52am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a crumpled, empty pizza box on a dark, shadowy surface, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash, conceptually representing the aftermath of a robbery targeting a pizza delivery driver.A stark, gritty image of the aftermath of a robbery targeting a pizza delivery driver, highlighting the dangers these workers face.Chicago Today

Chicago police have issued an alert after two pizza delivery drivers were robbed in the city's Washington Park neighborhood. In both incidents, two suspects approached the drivers, attempted to pay with counterfeit money, and then threatened physical harm before taking the food and fleeing on foot. One of the robberies involved a suspect displaying a black handgun.

Why it matters

Delivery drivers are vulnerable targets for thieves, and these incidents highlight the risks they face while serving customers. The use of counterfeit money and threats of violence are particularly concerning, as they put the drivers' safety at risk. The Washington Park area has seen an uptick in property crimes in recent years, making this an important public safety issue for the local community.

The details

The first robbery occurred on March 22 around 10:40 p.m. in the 5600 block of South Wabash Avenue. The second incident happened on Friday around 5:30 p.m. in the same area. In both cases, the two suspects approached the delivery drivers, attempted to pay with counterfeit money, and then threatened to physically harm the drivers before taking the food and fleeing on foot. In one of the robberies, one of the suspects displayed a black handgun.

  • The first robbery occurred on March 22 around 10:40 p.m.
  • The second robbery occurred on Friday around 5:30 p.m.

The players

Chicago Police Department

The local law enforcement agency that issued the alert about the robberies and is investigating the incidents.

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What they’re saying

“Anyone with information is asked to contact Area One Detectives at 312-747-8380 or submit an anonymous tip at CPDTIP.com, using reference number P261040.”

— Chicago Police Department

The takeaway

These robberies underscore the risks that delivery drivers face and the need for increased security measures and community vigilance to protect vulnerable workers. Residents should be alert for suspicious activity and report any information that could help apprehend the suspects.