Driver, 31, Intentionally Rams Into Joliet Motorist's Jeep: Police

JOLIET, IL — A 31-year-old Joliet motorist was arrested this week after using his Jeep Cherokee as a dangerous weapon, intentionally crashing into a 59-year-old man who was driving in the other direction along Henderson Avenue, Joliet police reports reflect.

The 59-year-old crash victim was taken to the Silver Cross Hospital by a Joliet Fire Department ambulance, and his injuries are not believed to be serious, police noted.

As for Daniel Cervantes, he was arrested on charges of reckless driving and improper lane use.

Tuesday's head-on wreck involving the two Jeeps happened around 6:15 p.m. in the 400 block of Henderson.

The victim's Jeep Cherokee was headed south on Henderson approaching Jackson Street, while Cervantes was driving his Jeep Cherokee north on Henderson.

"Cervantes crossed into the southbound lane of Henderson Avenue and struck the other Jeep Cherokee head-on," police spokesman Dwayne English noted.

After the collision, Cervantes and his Jeep were not on the scene when officers arrived to investigate, however, police said they made contact with Cervantes a short time later.

"During the investigation, it is believed that Cervantes intentionally entered the opposing lane to strike the other vehicle and the two drivers held a prior history," English stated.

Cervantes was placed into custody without incident at the Joliet Police Department, and he was later released from custody on an I-Bond, police reports reflect.

Cervantes comes from the 500 block of Abe Street, which is very close to Henderson Avenue, on the city's east side.