Chicago officials say they're expediting the demolition of three vacant buildings located in an area riddled with crime.
The Chicago Police Department and the Department of Buildings say they began demolition of the buildings Tuesday.
The structures are located in the city's West Pullman neighborhood.
Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel says the demolitions are a way to fight gang activity and crime.
So far this year the city has demolished 14 structures and boarded up more than 400 buildings.
To qualify for demolition, buildings must be in places with a high crime rate, have an absent owner, and impossible to repair.
