In a late-night incident on the Northwest Side of Chicago, a stolen vehicle crashed into a car and a dry cleaning business, resulting in multiple injuries and significant damage. The Chicago Police Department reported that at least five people were hospitalized as a result of the crash, which occurred in the 7600 block of West Touhy Avenue around 10:35 p.m. on a Friday night.
According to CPD, a black Audi with a driver and three passengers was being monitored by a police helicopter when the driver lost control of the vehicle while driving at high speeds. The Audi collided with another vehicle before crashing into the brick wall of a dry cleaning business near the intersection of West Touhy and North Ottawa Avenue.
The driver of the stolen vehicle, a 21-year-old man, sustained serious leg and spine injuries and was rushed to Lutheran Hospital in critical condition. Additionally, another male and three females were also taken to local hospitals for treatment of minor injuries sustained in the crash.
Following an initial investigation, CPD officers recovered a handgun at the scene, although it was not confirmed whether the weapon was found in the stolen vehicle. Charges are pending as the investigation continues, and traffic citations are expected to be issued in connection with the crash.
Prior to the crash into the dry cleaning business, the stolen Audi may have been involved in another accident. Eddie Thomas, a witness to the incident, claimed that the black Audi had collided with his vehicle at Milwaukee and Addison before crashing into the business. However, CPD has not officially confirmed this prior crash.
Area Five detectives are currently investigating the incident, and they are seeking information from any witnesses or individuals who may have relevant information. Anonymous tips can be submitted online at cpdtip.com to assist in the ongoing investigation.
The chaotic events of that night serve as a reminder of the dangers of reckless driving and the potential consequences of criminal behavior. The impact of the crash not only caused physical harm to those involved but also resulted in significant property damage to the dry cleaning business and other vehicles. As the investigation unfolds, authorities will work to piece together the sequence of events leading up to the crash and hold those responsible accountable for their actions.