Gang Member Faces Gun, Drug Charges After Shots Fired in Apartment Complex

PALATINE, IL — A self-described gang member was arrested Monday on weapon and drug charges after running from Palatine police officers who were investigating a report of gunfire at an apartment complex.

Samuel Cervantes, 21, of the 800 block of Panorama Drive, Palatine, was charged with felony possession of a firearm by a gang member, felony possession of a controlled substance and misdemeanor obstructing a peace officer. He is being held on $5,000 bond.

Police responded to a report of gunshots at about 10:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 28, at an apartment complex in the 1800 block of North Green Lane. When they arrived, officers saw Cervantes allegedly running from the area and taken into custody after a short foot chase, police said.

Officers found 2 grams of cocaine in Cervantes' possession, and an investigation determined that Cervantes had been carrying a handgun that was discharged in the complex, according to police. A Ruger. 357 magnum revolver was discovered shortly after Cervantes was apprehended.

No one was hurt in the incident, police said. Investigators did find that a bullet from the Ruger had gone through a nearby apartment window.

Samuel Cervantes, 21 (photo via Palatine Police Department)

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