Pair of Iowa City robberies reported within minutes

Two armed robberies were reported within minutes of one another late Thursday in Iowa City, police said.

A man told officers he was walking in the 700 block of North Gilbert Street around 11:20 p.m. when two men approached him from behind. When he turned around, he was punched in the face and ordered to give up money by the men, one of whom had a handgun, police said.

The suspects ran away with the victim's wallet and other personal property.

A second robbery was reported at the same time dispatchers were talking to the first victim. This man told police he was walking in an alley in the 400 block of North Linn Street, just a few blocks away from the first incident, when two men approached him and demanded money. One of the suspects had a handgun.

The victim yelled for help as the man began punching him, and continued to yell until the suspects ran away, police said. Nothing was taken from the second victim.

Both victims reported seeing a group of four or five people that broke off in pairs and walked in separate directions before they were confronted. The suspects are described as two black males, between 18 and 20 years old. At least one of the suspects was wearing a black, puffy, down coat and black ski cap, according to the victims.

The victims suffered minor injuries that did not need medical treatment.

Anyone with information about either crime is asked to call Iowa City Area CrimeStoppers at (319) 358-TIPS (8477). A reward of up to $1,000 is available for information leading to the arrest of these suspects. Anonymous tips are accepted.