Hot Rods Stolen In Joliet During Cross Country Trip Along Route 66: Joliet Police Reveal How It Unfolded

JOLIET, IL — At times, Joliet can be a city that is plagued with crime and that happened again this week as nine hot rod vehicles traveling across the United States were stolen late at night from the parking lots outside the Joliet hotels off Interstate 80 and Houbolt Road.

WJOL, Joliet's news radio station at AM-1340 broke the news of this week's crime.

According to a press release from Joliet police's Dwayne English, at 5:30 a.m. on Tuesday, the officers responded to the
parking lot of the Holiday Inn and Suites at 1471 Rock Creek Boulevard for a report of multiple vehicles stolen or damaged while parked in the lot.

The officers determined that three Chevrolet Corvettes and one Chevrolet Camaro had been stolen. Officers were also advised that a Chevrolet SS, Dodge Challenger, and an additional Chevrolet Camaro had sustained damage, but were not stolen.

During the investigation, officers also learned of a damaged Dodge Charger in the parking lot of the nearby Comfort Inn at 1520 Commerce Lane, English pointed out.

"It is believed the incidents are related and occurred during the overnight hours. Broken glass was located at the scene," English revealed. "As the investigation progressed, officers were notified that one of the stolen Chevrolet Corvettes was later recovered following a crash in Dolton, Illinois. No individuals were taken into custody in connection with that incident."

English noted that the vehicles involved were participating in the 2026 Hot Rod Power Tour.

"This remains an open and active investigation. Anyone with video footage or additional information related to these incidents is encouraged to contact the Tri-County Auto Theft Task Force at 815-724-4677 or by email at tcat@joliet.gov. Individuals wishing to remain anonymous may contact Will County Crime Stoppers at 800-323-6734 or submit a tip online at crimestoppersofwillcounty.org."

Meanwhile, WJOL reported that the 32nd annual HOT ROD Power Tour was taking place from June 8 through June 12 and it was celebrating the 100th anniversary of Route 66. It's a five-day 8,000-mile cross-country ride from Illinois to Oklahoma, and it features thousands of classic cars, hot rods and muscle cars that are following the Route 66 highway.

"The 32nd annual HOT ROD Power Tour launches at Route 66 Raceway in Joliet, Illinois, near the easternmost point of the historic highway. Last year’s stop at the NHRA-sanctioned facility delivered a record-setting turnout of cars and fans, and 2026 promises even more excitement. Along with the manufacturer midway, expansive car show, and main-stage entertainment, drag racing will once again be open to all registered participants, making Joliet a powerful start to this milestone tour," its website proclaims.