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Armed Man Approaches Officers During Stolen Vehicle Investigation

EVANSTON, IL - On December 18, 2023, at approximately 8:30 a.m., Evanston Patrol Officers were investigating a motor vehicle theft. The victim, an Evanston resident, reported that her 2013 Hyundai had been stolen from her residence. The victim informed officers that she had a GPS ping for the Hyundai in the area of the 7400 block of North Ridge Avenue in Chicago.

Officers canvassed the area of the GPS ping and located the Hyundai parked behind an apartment building in the 7400 block of North Ridge Avenue. Officers discovered the vehicle was running but unoccupied. The vehicle also had a broken window and a damaged steering column. While officers were conducting their investigation, a subject approached, claiming to be the victim's son. The officers were unaware that anyone associated with the victim was coming to the scene. The subject was stopped in an effort to confirm their identification.

Based on the circumstances, one of the officers attempted to perform a pat down search on the subject, Jaquan Lee. When the officer initiated the pat down, Lee fled on foot. Both officers gave chase, and Lee was eventually detained. Once Lee was secure, officers checked his path of flight and recovered a loaded 9mm Canik handgun. Lee was transported to the police station.

Lee was interviewed as part of the investigation. Lee made a statement, admitting to possessing the handgun. Lee, who was the vehicle owner's son, approached to retrieve the vehicle for his mother and brought the gun for protection. Lee stated he fled in an effort to discard the gun.

The investigation revealed that Lee did not have a FOID card or a Concealed Carry License. The Cook County State’s Attorney's’ Office reviewed the investigation and approved one felony count of aggravated unlawful use of a weapon. 

Click here for a picture of the handgun.

Offender

Lee, Jaquan 22-year-old male

100 block of Clyde Avenue, Evanston, IL.

Charges

1 felony count of Aggravated Unlawful Use of a Weapon

Court Information

Lee was not detained by the Cook County Sheriff. His next court date January 23, 2024, at Branch 50.

-END-

Media Relations: Commander Ryan Glew
rglew@cityofevanston.org
Phone: 847-866-5026