Fleeing Burglars Try To Carjack Driver On Expressway After Crash: Cops

WILMETTE, IL — Police said three people were taken into custody after they crashed a stolen car and attempted to carjack a motorist on the expressway.

Around 4 a.m. Friday, a Wilmette police officer dispatched to a burglary alarm at Wilmette Market, 3534 Lake Ave., noticed a black Jeep Cherokee driving away and began to follow, police said.

The driver of the Jeep fled into the Edens Expressway toward Chicago, and the Wilmette cop gave chase before calling off the pursuit near Wilson Avenue in Chicago, according to a release.

The officer reported finding the Jeep crashed against the side wall of Interstate 94 with three people carrying handguns running away on foot.

Police said the armed trio tried to carjack a white van, but its driver was able to pull away without being physically injured.

One of the three people arrested was taken to a local hospital for treatment for their injuries from the crash, which were not thought to be life-threatening.

Police said they found cash and alcohol stolen from the Wilmette liquor store from the trio, as well as the Jeep, which had been reported stolen from Elgin on Dec. 17.

No further information about any pending charges was immediately available.