Robbers used chemical spray to steal from Chicago nail salons, police say

Chicago nail spas hit by robbers who used chemical spray, police say

Two nail spas in Chicago were targeted in recent robberies where suspects allegedly sprayed employees with a chemical irritant before stealing cash and personal belongings, according to police. What We Know

CHICAGO - Two nail spas in Chicago were targeted in recent robberies where suspects allegedly sprayed employees with a chemical irritant before stealing cash and personal belongings, according to police.

What we know:

Chicago police say two armed robberies occurred at nail spas over the past week—one in the Loop and the other in the Prairie District.

In both cases, a man and a woman entered the businesses and received a range of services. When it came time to pay, police say the pair sprayed a chemical irritant at spa employees, then took off with cash, purses, and cellphones.

The first robbery happened around 3 p.m. on May 28 at the Pure Rain Nail Spa in the 300 block of South Dearborn Street. The owner said the man and woman got manicures and a pedicure exceeding $200.

They tried to pay with a credit card, but it was declined. They also said someone was going to Zelle a payment but never did.

The owner said eventually her employees were sprayed with the chemical irritant and their purses were stolen.

The second took place on Sunday around 5:52 p.m. at OMG Spa in the 1600 block of South Michigan Avenue.

Police describe the female suspect as Black, about 20 to 30 years old, 5-foot-5, and weighing between 220 and 240 pounds. The male suspect is described as Black, about 30 to 35 years old, 5-foot-10, and weighing between 160 and 180 pounds, with a physical impairment on his right hand.

Two nail spas in Chicago were targeted in recent robberies where suspects allegedly sprayed employees with a chemical irritant before stealing cash and personal belongings, according to police. (Provided to Fox 32)

In photos obtained by Fox 32, a woman can be seen wearing an olive green hoodie with "New York" printed in black letters. A small heart is also tattooed below her left eye.

The male suspect had a purple beenie with yellow lettering, a black crossbody sling bag and a white bandage wrapped around his right hand.

What you can do:

Chicago police are asking anyone with information to contact Area Three detectives at 312-744-8263 or submit a tip anonymously at CPDTIP.com.