A manhunt stemming from a rash of catalytic converter thefts was underway in the north and west suburbs Wednesday after one of the suspects being pursued by police ran into a residential neighborhood, with several police departments involved as an investigation remains ongoing.
The incident unfolded about 3 a.m. Wednesday, Villa Park police said, as officers from Villa Park and nearby law agencies were investigating the series of thefts. As the investigation continued, officers attempted to apprehend the suspects when they saw them committing the act.
The suspects then fled the scene in a vehicle and sped away, police said.
Officers deployed tire deflation devices, known as stop sticks, which left the vehicle’s two front tires disabled. Despite the damage, the suspects continued driving the vehicle from Villa Park to Elmhurst on its front rims.
When the vehicle became inoperable, the suspects fled on foot, police said. Officers from Villa Park and assisting agencies then established a perimeter and conducted a coordinated search of the area.
About 4:35 a.m., police in Elmhurst said one suspect ran into a residential neighborhood near St. Charles and Fair Avenue. A second suspect had already been taken into custody.
An update four hours later said officials believe the suspect was no longer in Elmhurst, and that Villa Park and Addison police were investigating.
As of 11:30 a.m., the suspect remained at large.
“This remains an active and ongoing investigation,” Villa Park police said.
