Construction Worker Attacked in Broad Daylight During Carjacking
CHICAGO — A violent hijacking has left a local construction worker injured and two suspects in custody, following a broad-daylight attack in the South Loop that resulted in the victim’s unconscious state and theft of his personal belongings. Prosecutors say the incident unfolded on May 22 when a man and woman approached the worker near Canal and Roosevelt Road just after 11 a.m.
According to the Chicago Police Department, the suspects — identified as Tavarus Winters, 36, and Tramese Winston, 29 — allegedly assaulted the man, beat him until he lost consciousness, and drove off with his white 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche and cellphone.
Investigators Trace Stolen Phone to Walmart Transaction
Authorities said surveillance footage and cellphone data played a crucial role in tracking down the suspects. Within hours of the carjacking, Winston was captured on video selling the victim’s phone at a Walmart in Evergreen Park, located just southwest of the city.
Winters was arrested a few days later, wearing the same distinctive green pants caught on surveillance at the Walmart. Police say the recovered video footage and transaction history from the Walmart helped corroborate witness statements and link the couple to the crime.
Victim’s Condition and Ongoing Recovery
The unnamed construction worker was found unconscious at the scene by responding officers. Emergency services rushed him to a nearby hospital where he regained consciousness later. Although the physical injuries were not life-threatening, the emotional trauma and sudden loss of his vehicle and phone have deeply impacted his day-to-day life, according to family members.
The victim reportedly told investigators he was unfamiliar with the attackers and believed he was targeted at random while on his lunch break.
Charges and Court Details
Winters and Winston have been charged with aggravated vehicular hijacking, robbery, and possession of stolen property. Both suspects appeared in Cook County court earlier this week where prosecutors laid out the timeline of events, supported by video and transaction evidence.
Judge Dennis J. Porter denied bail for Winters, citing a lengthy criminal history including prior convictions for robbery and assault. Winston, who appeared in court separately, was given a $100,000 bond and remains in custody.
Reactions From the Community
Nearby residents and workers have voiced concern about the incident, pointing to a growing fear of random violence in high-traffic business areas like the South Loop.
“It’s terrifying. You think you’re safe during the daytime, especially near busy roads and shops,” said Rosa Hernandez, a barista at a nearby café. “This happened in the middle of everything.”
Local leaders have renewed calls for increased patrols and surveillance in the area.
Digital Trail: A Cautionary Tale for Criminals
Investigators say the case underscores how digital breadcrumbs — like phone geolocation, credit card usage, and security footage — are increasingly helping law enforcement close cases more quickly.
“People think they can just disappear into the city, but everything leaves a trace,” said Detective Martin Lopez, who worked the case. “Surveillance and data matched up perfectly in this investigation.”
What Happens Next?
The case has now moved into the discovery phase. Prosecutors are expected to call Walmart employees and digital forensic experts to testify on how the sale was linked to Winston. Defense attorneys have not yet commented on whether the couple plans to plead guilty or request a trial.
A preliminary hearing is scheduled for next month, where additional evidence will be presented to determine if the case proceeds to trial.
Have you seen or experienced crime in your neighborhood that made you feel unsafe? What more should be done to prevent daylight hijackings in busy areas? Share your thoughts below.
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