Chicago, Illinois – A 52-year-old man was arrested after an alleged road rage shooting on Interstate 90 left a 14-year-old injured Feb. 18.
According to Illinois State Police, troopers responded around 3:13 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 18, to reports of a shooting on I-90 southbound near Ogden Avenue in Chicago. Investigators allege the incident occurred during a road rage encounter.
Police identified the suspect as Rene Garica, 52, of Chicago. Authorities allege Garica fired a weapon at another vehicle during the confrontation, striking a 14-year-old juvenile passenger. The victim was transported by private vehicle to a local hospital and treated for non-life-threatening injuries.
Garica allegedly pulled over after the incident and was taken into custody by troopers.
On Friday, Feb. 20, the case was presented to the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office. Garica was charged with one count of Aggravated Battery with a Firearm, a Class X felony, and one count of Aggravated Discharge of a Firearm – Occupied Vehicle, a Class 1 felony. He was held pending his first court appearance.
Illinois State Police reminded drivers not to engage in aggressive driving situations and urged anyone experiencing road rage incidents to contact 911 or local law enforcement.
Commuters along I-90 and connecting routes including I-94 may notice increased patrol awareness following the incident.
The charges are not evidence against the defendant. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
