OAK PARK, Ill. – A harrowing incident unfolded in Oak Park, leaving a CTA worker shaken and the community on high alert. The Oak Park Police Department reported a distressing case involving vandalism and an encounter with a knife-wielding assailant.
According to Oak Park Police reports it happened July 23rd when a Riverdale resident who also worked for CTA was notified of damage to her 2019 Honda Accord parked in the 1100 block of Garfield. When she arrived at the scene, she discovered her front passenger window shattered by a brick, setting off a chain of terrifying events.
Reports go on to say the victim approached her damaged vehicle, she caught sight of a male suspect attempting to break into it. In a desperate bid to protect herself and her property, she activated her car alarm. However, the situation took a menacing turn when the assailant reacted aggressively, brandishing a knife and advancing towards her.
Fearing for her life, the CTA worker swiftly retreated, with the knife-wielding individual in pursuit. The victim’s heart-wrenching ordeal reached its peak as she dropped her belongings, including a CTA Kenwood radio, while trying to escape the attacker. Seizing the opportunity, the suspect snatched the radio before fleeing on foot towards Harlem.
The incident resulted in an estimated loss of $2,000.00 worth of belongings.
In the wake of the shocking incident, the Oak Park Police Department has launched an intensive investigation to identify and apprehend the knife-wielding suspect. While no detailed description of the assailant has been released at this time, authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward immediately.
