Portage, IN – A high-stakes pursuit came to a dramatic halt on US Highway 20 when a stolen car carrying two juveniles crashed into a cement truck late Wednesday night.
According to Portage police reports, the incident began when a an officer, utilizing a Flock Safety license plate reader, identified a stolen 2020 Hyundai Elantra from Chicago on the city’s northwest side around 11:00 am on Wednesday. The ensuing chase, which saw the stolen vehicle reportedly speeding through Portage, culminated in an allegedly risky maneuver on Highway 20. Attempting to evade the police, the driver reportedly swerved into oncoming traffic, resulting in a collision with a cement truck parked on the shoulder. The cement truck driver, who had stopped to avoid the pursuit, reported only minor injuries.
Emergency services airlifted the two juveniles from the scene with serious injuries. Upon their apprehension, police discovered each was carrying a loaded semi-automatic pistol, and an amount of marijuana was found inside the car. The vehicle also reportedly contained evidence of involvement in another carjacking in Chicago the previous day.
Charges pending against the driver include fleeing law enforcement, possession of a stolen vehicle, reckless driving, and drug possession, while the passenger faces charges related to unlawful firearm and drug possession.
