Chicago Officer Dragged Several Blocks By Van After Traffic Stop

CHICAGO, IL — An officer was dragged by a van during a traffic stop on Chicago's Southwest Side, police said. The traffic stop happened Tuesday near 59th Street and Western Avenue. Police said officers in a marked squad car stopped the van.

While questioning the driver, the officers noticed a weapon on the van's backseat floor, police said. The driver then sped off, dragging the officer for several blocks, according to police.

The driver crashed into the side of a building, hit a gas meter and struck another car, police said. He then ran from the van and police went after him on foot, according to police.

The man was found around 20 minutes later near 62nd Street and Claremont Avenue, police said. Charges were pending against the driver. Police said a weapon was found inside the van.

The officer who was dragged was not seriously hurt and was taken to Advocate Christ Medical Center where he was listed in good condition, police said.

Photo by Amber Fisher