Lake County Gazette

The Lake County Sheriff’s Office reported the detention of a teenager who fled from deputies while carrying a loaded firearm.

On October 4, 2025, at approximately 7:40 p.m., a deputy from the Lake County Sheriff’s Office observed a Toyota Camry traveling at nearly 80 mph in a 40 mph zone on Sheridan Road in Beach Park. According to the sheriff's office, when the deputy attempted to initiate a traffic stop, the 17-year-old driver from Beach Park accelerated and turned off the vehicle's lights to evade detection. The vehicle was later located in a parking lot on the 3300 block of Sheridan Road in Zion. The driver was detained, but one passenger fled on foot.

According to Lake County officials, a deputy pursued and apprehended the fleeing passenger, also a 17-year-old from Beach Park. During the arrest, it was discovered that the teen had a pistol with an extended magazine in his waistband. The passenger faces charges in juvenile court for aggravated unlawful possession of a firearm, resisting arrest, unlawful possession of cannabis, and underage possession of alcohol. He has been taken to the Hulse Juvenile Detention Facility for a detention hearing.

The driver is also facing charges in juvenile court for aggravated fleeing to elude, aggravated speeding, reckless driving, and several other traffic offenses. After processing, he was released to a parent. Deputies identified another vehicle, a Dodge Dakota, which appeared to be accompanying the Toyota and fled the scene. The sheriff’s office continues its investigation into this vehicle and its occupants.

The Lake County Sheriff's Office emphasizes that all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court. The office is tasked with maintaining order and upholding laws within the community while focusing on service through education and partnerships. It aims to build public trust through integrity, respect, and professionalism and holds accreditation for adherence to recognized law enforcement standards. Established with Lake County's founding in 1839, it has expanded over time with significant additions like those made to its jail and courthouse in 1895.