Robbers target groups near Lower Greenville

04:01 AM CST on Tuesday, January 27, 2004

By BRAD HAWKINS / WFAA-TV

Police are still searching for suspects after more violent and costly attacks in the vicinity of Dallas' Greenville Avenue entertainment district on Saturday night.

The attacks occurred south of Mockingbird Lane between Penrose and McCommas. Authorities believe the location - one block off the busy Greenville strip - may have been a factor.

Julie, who doesn't want her last name used, was one of the latest victims. She and three friends, one of them male, were attacked Saturday night around 10:00.

"We were just getting out of our car, and a couple of guys crossed the street towards and told us to get down on the ground, and pulled a gun out on us," she said.

In all, 11 people were robbed at gunpoint in a matter of minutes.

"I feel lucky that somebody drove by, and somebody made them stop," Julie said.

Two other victims were injured. A robber told a female victim as he demanded cash that he'd "shoot (her) in the face"; she gave up $28 and then he pistol-whipped her on the back of (her) head.

In each of Saturday's attacks there were multiple perpetrators, and multiple victims.

"Some of these folks were actually waiting on their cars at the valets," said Dallas Police Sr. Cpl. Chris Gilliam. "So, there is safety in numbers - we don't want people to think that's not true."

The latest incidents trigger a chill colder than the January wind for the valets and business owners who employ them. For Lower Greenville businesses like Cafe Izmir and Kizmet Lounge, the expense of extra security and lighting outside is worth it to attract customers inside.

"People try and save money by parking three blocks up the street to go to places instead of valeting, paying $4 and you're safe," said Cafe Izmir owner Beau Nazary.

"I have friends that are bar and restaurant owners in that neighborhood," Julie said. "I like going out with my friends - I want to make sure it's a safe place to go out."