Bulletproof Subways A Sign Of Violent Times?

By John Dodge

CHICAGO (CBS) -- While out on an unrelated assignment, CBS 2 investigative reporter Dave Savini decided to stop by a South Side Subway sandwich shop for a meal.

Savini was struck by the fact that the counter of the store at 116th Street and South Halsted was encased in bullet-proof glass.

Such a sight would be common at crime magnets like gas stations or currency exchanges, but a Subway?

The store was clean and looked just like any other well-run Subway restaurant, except for the bullet-proof protection for the employees and lack of a bathroom for customers.

In fact, a few patrons asked for hand sanitizer because they couldn't wash their hands.

Savini took a few photos and sent out a tweet, saying the scene was a sad depiction of gun violence in Chicago:

The restaurant is located on the border of the Roseland and West Pullman neighborhoods, which has seen its share of gang violence.

However, according to a Chicago Tribune analysis, crime in those areas recently has declined.

Nonetheless, both communities rank in the top 15 in Chicago for violent crime.

Savini also posted his photos on Facebook, where one user remarked that there is a similar set up at a Subway in the Austin neighborhood.

An internet search also found a few bulletproof Subways in Oakland and Detroit.

In:
• West Pullman
• Subway
• Roseland