Gurnee, IL – Three juveniles are in custody following a multi-agency investigation into a stolen vehicle and a string of commercial burglaries across Lake County early Friday morning.
According to the Gurnee Police Department, detectives took the suspects into custody around 5:20 a.m. on Friday, May 2, 2026, while conducting surveillance in nearby Waukegan, located in Lake County within the Chicago metro area. Officers reportedly observed a stolen Kia connected to the investigation and coordinated with Waukegan police and other local agencies to make the arrests.
Authorities identified those taken into custody as a 16-year-old and two 17-year-olds, all from Waukegan. Police allege the juveniles are linked not only to the stolen vehicle recovered in the 500 block of Genesee Street, but also to a series of overnight commercial burglaries spanning multiple jurisdictions.
The arrests come after a noticeable rise in stolen vehicles and business break-ins throughout April, prompting Gurnee detectives to form a regional burglary task force with partners across Lake County.
Investigators say the case remains active, with additional charges pending as evidence is reviewed in coordination with the Lake County State’s Attorney’s Office Juvenile Division. Detectives are also working to identify other individuals who may be involved.
At this time, authorities estimate more than 40 commercial burglaries across Lake County could be connected to this ongoing investigation.
Police officials emphasized the complexity of the case, noting the coordination required among multiple departments. They added that continued investigative work is underway to determine the full scope of the incidents and hold those responsible accountable.
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