Wheaton, IL – A 26-year-old Aurora man is being held without bond after allegedly carjacking and beating a 71-year-old man outside a hotel in Aurora last week, according to DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin.
Authorities said Joshua Diquan Chandler, of the 4400 block of Chelsea Manor Circle, was charged with multiple felonies including Aggravated Vehicular Hijacking, Attempted Possession of a Stolen Motor Vehicle, Aggravated Battery in a Public Place, and Armed Robbery with a Firearm. Chandler was already on probation for a prior drug delivery conviction.
According to police, officers responded around 7:30 a.m. on January 21, 2026, to the Quality Inn on Gabrielle Lane after reports of a disturbance. Investigators allege Chandler approached a 71-year-old man walking to his truck, asked for a ride, and then violently attacked him, attempting to steal several vehicles in the hotel parking lot.
Authorities say Chandler allegedly beat and dragged the victim, attempted to break into multiple vehicles, and fled on foot after a struggle. He was arrested nearby after a brief confrontation with police.
“This type of violent behavior toward a random innocent man and subsequent attempted carjacking will not be tolerated in DuPage County,” Berlin said in a statement. Aurora Police Chief Matt Thomas added that officers “responded quickly and took decisive action to stop a dangerous situation.”
Chandler faces up to 30 years in prison if convicted. His next court date is set for February 17, 2026, before Judge Mia McPherson.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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