Pursuit Ends In 2 Teens' Arrest, Recovery Of Stolen Loaded Gun: Aurora Police

AURORA, IL — Two 17-year-olds were taken into custody Friday evening after they were caught driving in a stolen vehicle and carrying a stolen, loaded firearm, Aurora police said.

Patrol officers on Aurora's Near East Side were informed that a blue Kia Sportage, which had recently been reported stolen from a neighboring community, was traveling south on Farnsworth Avenue at about 11 p.m.

When police located the car and attempted a traffic stop, the SUV fled, leading police and Kane County sheriff's deputies on a brief chase. The pursuit ended when the Kia got stuck in an open field near Fifth and Hill avenues, according to a news release.

Officers apprehended a 17-year-old from Bensenville and recovered a loaded .40-caliber handgun that had been reported stolen by the Round Lake Beach Police Department, officials said. The second suspect fled, and police located the 17-year-old, of Addison, hiding in the 300 block of Kendall Street.

The Bensenville teen was charged with aggravated unlawful use of a weapon, aggravated fleeing and eluding and resisting a peace officer. The Addison teen, who police said is a documented street gang member, faces charges of possession of a stolen motor vehicle and resisting a peace officer. Both were taken to the Kane County Juvenile Justice Center to await a detention hearing.

Police said there are no additional suspects in the case.

"This incident highlights the serious danger posed by stolen vehicles and illegally possessed firearms in our community," Chief Matt Thomas said in a statement. "When stolen cars and stolen, loaded weapons are involved, the risk to residents and responding officers increases significantly. ... We remain focused on addressing stolen vehicles and illegal firearms to keep our neighborhoods safe."

As the investigation remains ongoing, police are asking anyone with information related to the case to contact the Aurora Police Department's investigations division at 630-256-5500.