CHICAGO — Two boys, both just 14 years old, are facing serious felony charges after allegedly orchestrating a violent early morning carjacking that left a 39-year-old man critically injured in Chicago’s Edgewater neighborhood, police said.
Brutal Ambush in Edgewater
According to Chicago police, the crime occurred around 4:15 a.m. on June 10 near the 1700 block of West Peterson Avenue. Authorities say the teens, along with two unidentified accomplices, arrived in a white sedan and launched a brutal ambush.
The group allegedly struck the victim with their car, severely injuring him, before stealing his belongings and fleeing in his blue Toyota Highlander. The victim was transported to St. Francis Hospital in critical condition.
The assailants were reportedly armed, with at least one firearm used in the attack.
Juveniles Now Face Felony Charges
The first teen was taken into custody on July 1, followed by the second teen’s arrest on Monday, July 7, according to police. Both are charged with:
- Aggravated vehicular hijacking with a firearm
- Aggravated battery causing great bodily harm
One of the boys also faces an additional charge of unlawful possession of a weapon.
Due to Illinois’ juvenile confidentiality laws, police have not released their names or further details on their criminal histories. The other two suspects in the case remain unidentified and are still at large.
Rising Concerns Over Youth Involvement in Violent Crime
This incident underscores the growing concern among law enforcement and city leaders about the increasing role of young teens in serious violent offenses — particularly armed carjackings.
As previously reported by CWB Chicago, Chicago has seen multiple cases of youth under the age of 16 involved in carjackings, robberies, and shootings across the city’s North and West Sides.
Local officials and advocacy groups have pointed to a lack of early intervention services, pandemic-era disruptions in schooling and supervision, and social media influences as possible drivers behind this troubling trend.
Have You Witnessed Carjacking Activity or Seen Suspicious Vehicles in Edgewater?
Share your experience in the comments at ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com — your voice can help neighbors stay informed and alert.
