Peoria Police said an early morning traffic pursuit Tuesday involved individuals in a stolen vehicle who were attempting to run over students in the parking lots at both Richwoods and Peoria high schools.
Two adults and four juveniles were arrested after the chase ended in a crash at Main and University streets near the Bradley University campus.
“We are extremely fortunate that no one was seriously injured or killed today,” Police Chief Eric Echevarria said is a media release, adding several of those involved have prior criminal histories.
According to the statement, the group wore masks as they violently attacked one student who was walking to Peoria High. That student required medical attention at a local hospital.
Echevarria said the people in the stolen car drove recklessly toward students at both high schools, targeting individuals. They attempted to confront marked police vehicles, and threw objects at squad cars and other motorists.
The chief said he authorized the pursuit in light of an immediate and ongoing threat to the community. The stolen vehicle was disabled after running over spike strips and crashing.
The six occupants initially were transported to a local hospital for evaluation before being taken into custody.
“I am frustrated and frankly exhausted by the cycle of violent offenders who continue to victimize our community with little meaningful intervention or accountability,” said Echevarria. “Our officers are doing their jobs. They are proactive. They are courageous.
“But when repeat offenders face minimal consequences, the burden shifts back onto victims and the broader community.”
Echevarria went on to say the event exposes weaknesses in the juvenile justice system.
“Parents must be a part of this conversation in a serious way. When juveniles are out in a stolen vehicle committing violent crimes at 6 o’clock in the morning, that is not just a policing issue, that is a parenting failure,” he said.
“Guardians are responsible for knowing where their children are, who they are with, and what they are doing. We cannot continue to normalize or excuse this behavior. If we expect safer streets and safer schools, accountability must begin at home.”
The incident remains under active investigation, and anyone with additional information is asked to contact Peoria Police.
