ADDISON — An 18-year-old Addison resident, Emmanuel Rivera, has been ordered held in pre-trial detention following a high-speed police chase in Wood Dale that ended with a firearm discovery and multiple felony charges.
The June 24 incident unfolded when Wood Dale police responded to a report of a disturbance involving a white Nissan Sentra on North Maple Avenue. Authorities say Rivera was behind the wheel and fled when officers attempted a traffic stop, initiating a dangerous pursuit through a residential area.
Chase Through Residential Streets
According to the DuPage County State’s Attorney’s Office, Rivera sped through the neighborhood at approximately 60 miles per hour in a 20 mph zone, putting pedestrians and other drivers at serious risk. The chase ended when Rivera lost control and crashed into a median. Rivera and the car’s other occupants then fled the scene on foot.
When officers approached the disabled vehicle, they discovered a .40 caliber Glock 27 handgun with a round in the chamber. Rivera was later identified as the driver and taken into custody.
Judge Grants Detention Request
DuPage County Judge Alexander McGimpsey approved the state’s motion to detain Rivera pending trial. Rivera faces charges of illegal firearm possession and fleeing police — serious offenses that carry potential prison time if convicted.
DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin commended the Wood Dale Police for their swift response, stating:
“Like so many before him, Mr. Rivera allegedly tried to outrun the police instead of simply pulling over. Thanks to excellent police work, we now have him off the streets and in custody.”
Police Chief Warns About Fleeing
Wood Dale Police Chief Chris Zito also addressed the incident, emphasizing the public safety risk of suspects choosing to flee from traffic stops.
“The defendant’s actions not only put our officers at risk but also posed a significant threat to public safety,” Zito said. “I want to thank our officers and partner agencies for their fast action and the safe resolution of this dangerous situation.”
Rivera is scheduled to appear again in DuPage County court on July 21, 2025, in front of Judge Ann Celine O’Hallaren Walsh.
Public Safety and Firearm Concerns
The case adds to growing concerns over illegal firearms and risky police chases in suburban neighborhoods. According to the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority, youth firearm arrests have increased statewide over the past two years — a trend echoed in suburban counties.
Law enforcement agencies are also grappling with how best to handle vehicle pursuits, with some departments re-evaluating pursuit policies to limit risks to bystanders. In Rivera’s case, the loaded weapon found in the car elevated what could have been a traffic stop into a serious public safety threat.
Presumed Innocent
Authorities stress that Rivera is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court. His defense team is expected to challenge the prosecution’s evidence and may seek a reduction in bond or dismissal of some charges.
Do you think suburban areas like Addison and Wood Dale are seeing a rise in youth-involved crime? Share your experiences or thoughts in the comments. For more stories impacting your neighborhood, visit ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com.
