In a dramatic turn of events in Gurnee, Illinois, a high-speed chase involving federal immigration officials culminated in arrests at a local high school on Thursday morning, according to the Gurnee Police Department.
Authorities stated that they were alerted to a pursuit initiated by federal law enforcement agencies. The individuals in the vehicle had previously been deported due to felony convictions, prompting the chase.
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The pursuit, which lasted approximately ten minutes, began outside Gurnee and led to several collisions along the route, officials reported.
The Department of Homeland Security revealed that the incident started when Border Patrol agents attempted to conduct a traffic stop on Dugdale Road.
At around 8:20 a.m., the vehicle being pursued was speeding westbound on Grand Avenue. It lost a tire near the intersection with First Street, police noted.
As a result, the dislodged tire struck an eastbound vehicle on Grand Avenue, adding to the chaos of the chase.
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The suspect vehicle continued west on Grand before turning south onto O’Plaine Road, near the entrance to Warren Township High School’s O’Plaine Campus.
Those in the vehicle got out and ran toward the school, police said.
One suspect entered the school and was detained by federal agents; the other was taken into custody outside the school.
Gurnee police were not involved in the chase or arrests.
A School Resource Officer helped to secure the campus, and a lockdown was not required, police said.
“The Gurnee Police Department understands that developing situations of this nature can be alarming to students, staff, and parents. Fortunately, no injuries were reported for anyone on campus or to motorists in the area. We extend our sincere appreciation to the Warren Township High School staff, students, and parents for their cooperation and patience throughout the incident,” police said.
DHS said the two suspects have criminal histories that include kidnapping, domestic violence, drug possession, driving under the influence and more.
