Wrong-Way Driver Crashes Into Police at Chicago ‘Teen Takeover,’ Leaving Five Officers Hurt

An 18-year-old driver crashed his vehicle into five Chicago police officers on May 24. Officials said the officers were attempting to break up a party early Sunday after it went “out of control.”

According to authorities, the crash unfolded around 3:20 a.m. on May 24. Police responded to a call about a "teen takeover" at the Brooks Homes near Roosevelt and Loomis on the Near West Side.

Alderman Jim Gardiner said in a statement that officers were trying to manage the massive gathering when a blue sedan driving on the wrong side allegedly hit them. The driver was traveling westbound in an eastbound lane and drove over the curb, crashing into a police squad, pole, and fence.

Authorities said that five officers were taken to the hospital, and three of them remained there. The details of their injuries have not been revealed.

The driver’s identity has not been confirmed. It also remains unclear whether the driver had any connection to the post-prom gathering. Authorities have said that the driver survived the crash without any significant injuries. He was taken into custody and has not yet been charged. Authorities said they found a gun in his vehicle.

Alderman Jason Ervin said that the incident has shaken up the neighborhood. Apart from the driver, more than a dozen teenagers were arrested for further investigation. In a statement, Ervin said, “Normally, we do not have problems in the Brooks Homes for Memorial Day, and so this caught a lot of people off-guard, what transpired last night. Hopefully, the officers recover fully and are able to get back to work."

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson addressed the parents of teenagers in a statement. “The accountability mechanism cannot just be with teenagers. I know where my son was at 3 a.m. after he went to prom and came home, and we need parents to ensure our children are coming home,” Johnson said.

Following the incident, his office released a statement saying, “There also must be accountability for the individuals who participated in violent and reckless behavior. We are creating opportunities and safe spaces for young people, but families, communities, and city leaders all have a role to play in keeping our young people safe.”