Joliet Hostage Taker Captured, 2 Victims Escape From House: Sheriff

JOLIET, IL — The Will County Sheriff's Office announced multiple charges against 46-year-old George Hall, who is accused of holding two people hostage Monday at his home in the 700 block of Pontiac Street, according to the agency.

Around 1:40 p.m., police said, Will County Sheriff’s deputies were dispatched to the 700 block of Pontiac Street in Joliet Township following a 911 call reporting that two people were being held hostage inside a house.

Upon arrival, sheriff's deputies said they saw a distressed female standing in the doorway. She was able to exit the home safely and without incident. Moments later, a man ran down the stairs and fled the residence to safety. Both victims told deputies that a male relative, armed with a loaded handgun, had been holding them against their will, authorities said.

Approximately 90 seconds after the male victim exited, the suspect—identified as 46-year-old George H. Hall—emerged from the home and was taken into custody without incident, police said.

A subsequent search of the residence uncovered a loaded 9mm handgun with a defaced serial number, police said.

Hall was taken to the Will County Adult Detention Facility and is facing the following charges: two counts of aggravated unlawful restraint, one count of possession of a firearm with a defaced serial number, one count of unlawful use or possession of a firearm by a felon and one count of illegal possession of ammunition/FOID.