Hurst, IL – A dramatic sequence of events unfolded in Hurst, Illinois, on Tuesday culminating in the arrest of Ricky A. Cooper following a dangerous ATV chase involving a 3-year-old child.
Williamson County Sheriff’s deputies reports say deputies attempted to stop Cooper, who was seen reportedly driving the ATV without safety helmets for himself or the child, on public roads. Cooper, familiar to the deputies from prior interactions, reportedly fled, ignoring stop signs, leading to a pursuit that was eventually terminated to safeguard the child’s well-being.
The investigation revealed Cooper, the biological but non-custodial father, had allegedly taken the child from the grandparents’ custody without permission. The child was safely returned to his grandmother later that evening, after Cooper indicated his willingness to surrender. He also admitted the ATV was stolen, sparking an ongoing search for the vehicle.
Cooper now faces multiple charges, including Aggravated Fleeing and Eluding a Peace Officer, Child Abduction, and Endangering the Life or Health of a Child. The Williamson County Sheriff’s Office urges anyone with information to come forward, offering anonymity through their tip submission app.
