MPD investigating two robberies within minutes in Riverwest

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Two robberies within minutes have people in Milwaukee’s Riverwest neighborhood on edge.

"Someone got robbed with an assault rifle down the street," said a man who lives in the area.

The first incident happened near Bartlett and North Avenue early Monday morning around 1 a.m.

According to the MPD, a man was sitting in his car when he was approached by the suspects. They demanded his belongings, then took off with his car.

"I was sitting at the computer, which is at the front of the house, and I noticed flashing lights going around the houses," a neighbor told CBS 58.

About 15 minutes later, it happened again.

Two other people just one mile away from the first incident were targeted. MPD says the robbers approached them while they were walking near Humboldt and Meinecke, and demanded their property.

"Very, very, very, times five uncomfortable even walking these streets!” said Frank Balistieri Jr. II, who lives in the neighborhood. “I don't go out at night."

People say the area needs more security. They're also taking extra precautions. "I keep my house locked, double locked at night, and I keep the doors locked during the day. I wouldn't be out there walking."

No injuries were reported.

MPD is working to determine if the two robberies are connected.