Unsafe Area West Of Elmhurst, With Large Crowds: Police

VILLA PARK, IL – North Avenue is a major street in the western suburbs, but Villa Park police on Sunday warned drivers away from a part of the street just west of Elmhurst.

On Saturday, Villa Park reported a "takeover" of North and Villa avenues and nearby parking lots, with cars being driven unsafely, according to a news release.

"There was an arrest attempted, and a crowd formed to block that arrest," police said in the statement.

Police said they also received an unsubstantiated claim that some people were displaying weapons.

"As a police department, we will do all we can to keep the public safe, but with such large crowds and a few bad actors, it will be a challenge," police said. "We do not feel it is a safe environment for passersby, pedestrians, and youths being dropped off in the area. We would ask you to proceed with caution in the area, or even avoid the area much as possible (Sunday) evening."

Police departments in the area will not allow any drivers to park in other business lots or residential streets, Villa Park police said.

In response to parking violations, officers will issue tickets and tow cars away, police said. Under a local ordinance, Villa Park can fine a car's owner $900 if the driver flees from an officer.

"We are prepared to spike the tires of any vehicle that attempts to flee and take all appropriate action against drivers who endanger the public," police said. "There have been deaths and serious injuries that have occurred in that corridor."

Elmhurst police are aware of the situation.

"On Friday and Saturday, the Elmhurst Police Department responded to assist Villa Park Police in their jurisdiction as part of established mutual aid protocol," the city's spokeswoman, Kassondra Schref, said in response to Patch's inquiry. "The Elmhurst Police Department routinely patrols all areas of the city, and there were no related issues reported in our community."