DES PLAINES, IL – In a brazen display of criminal activity, four armed men stormed into a casino in Des Plaines early this morning, stealing a large quantity of jewelry and attempting to steal a car before fleeing the scene, according to Des Plaines Police Department.
The incident took place at approximately 2 a.m. at the Rivers Casino, located at 3000 S. River Road. The four suspects, all wearing masks and armed with handguns, entered the casino and immediately made their way to the jewelry store located within the premises.
Witnesses described a chaotic scene as the suspects smashed display cases and grabbed handfuls of expensive jewelry before fleeing the store. Security footage showed the men carrying duffel bags filled with stolen merchandise as they ran towards the parking lot.
Upon reaching the parking lot, the suspects attempted to steal a parked car in order to make their getaway. However, their efforts were thwarted when security guards and casino patrons intervened, leading to a brief scuffle before the suspects managed to escape on foot.
Des Plaines Police Department arrived on the scene shortly after the incident was reported and launched a thorough investigation into the robbery and attempted car theft. The suspects remain at large and are considered armed and dangerous.
“We are actively pursuing all leads and working closely with our law enforcement partners to apprehend these dangerous individuals,” said Chief Paul Sperling of the Des Plaines Police Department. “We urge anyone with information regarding this incident to come forward and assist us in bringing these criminals to justice.”
The Rivers Casino has issued a statement expressing their concern for the safety of their patrons and employees, and reassured the public that they are cooperating fully with authorities in the investigation.
Anyone with information regarding the suspects or the incident is urged to contact the Des Plaines Police Department at 847-391-5400. The investigation is ongoing.