Crash Ends High-Speed Chase
A federal pursuit through Chicago’s South Side ended in turmoil after Border Patrol agents forced a red SUV off the road using a precision stop maneuver. Officials said the vehicle had earlier struck a government car before attempting to flee. When the chase ended, two occupants ran from the wreckage but were quickly apprehended by agents at the scene. Authorities are investigating potential links to human smuggling activity.
Tear Gas Used as Crowd Gathers
Following the crash, nearby residents and onlookers surrounded the area, shouting at officers as tensions escalated. Witnesses reported that objects were thrown toward agents, leading Border Patrol officers to release tear gas to disperse the growing crowd. The chemical spread through the intersection, affecting bystanders and first responders. Chicago police confirmed that 13 of their officers were treated after being exposed.
Backlash From State and Local Leaders
Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker condemned the incident, denouncing the use of chemical agents in a residential neighborhood. City officials called for federal accountability and greater communication with local authorities during immigration operations. Chicago police stated they are cooperating with federal investigators to determine what led to both the crash and the escalation that followed.
