Alsip Teen Accused Of Shooting Couple Out For Stroll in DuPage County

WHEATON — Bail for an Alsip teen accused of shooting a couple strolling along a road in Glendale Heights was set at $500,000. Nathan Gaytan, 16, appeared Friday morning before DuPage County Judge John Kinsella on two counts of attempted murder and one count of aggravated battery with a firearm, both Class X felonies. Gaytan is being charged as an adult.

Around 8:30 p.m. Aug. 12, the two people were waking along Army Trail Rad in Glendale Heights, when prosecutors said Gaytan and another unidentified person, confronted the pair and began yelling at them. Prosecutors said Gaytan and the other person removed guns from their waistbands and pointed their guns at the pair, who walked away.

Moments later, Gaytan and his alleged accomplice drove up in a vehicle, prosecutors said, and Gaytan got out and fired at the pair nine times. One of the pair was struck in the arm and thigh. Prosecutors said Gaytan fled the scene. Gaytan was identified as a suspect and was arrested Aug. 18 without incident.

DuPage County State's Attorney Robert Berlin said the main concern now was for the couple’s physical and emotional well-being.

“It is alleged that for no reason whatsoever, Mr. Gaytan fired nine times at an innocent couple simply enjoying an evening stroll,” Berlin said. “Regardless of the age of the accused, violent gun crimes will not be tolerated in DuPage County and will be aggressively prosecuted.”

Gaytan’s next court appearance is set for Sept. 16, in front of Judge Ann Celine O’Hallaren Walsh. An investigation into the matter continues. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Glendale Heights Police Department at 630-260-6020.