Lowell, IN – Indiana State Police have arrested a Chicago man in connection with a shooting on Interstate 80/94 that ended when the victim crashed into a semi-truck while attempting to flee.
According to the Indiana State Police, detectives identified Austin L. Cortez, 27, of Chicago, as the suspect following an intensive investigation into the Tuesday shooting.
Illinois State Police located and arrested Cortez Tuesday evening. He is currently being held at the Cook County Jail pending extradition to Indiana.
Investigators said the Lake County Prosecutor’s Office will review potential charges of attempted murder and criminal recklessness with a firearm. Officials noted that final charging decisions will be made by prosecutors.
The arrest follows an incident Tuesday morning in which the Lowell Regional Dispatch Center received a 911 call from a driver reporting they had been shot multiple times while traveling in Illinois. According to investigators, the gunfire continued after the vehicle crossed into Indiana on eastbound Interstate 80/94 near Calumet Avenue.
State police said the victim, while attempting to escape the suspects, crashed into the rear of a semi-truck. Neither the shooting victim nor the truck driver was injured by the gunfire or the collision.
The interstate remained closed for several hours while detectives and crime scene investigators processed evidence at the scene.
Indiana State Police said the investigation remains active and additional information may be released as it becomes available.
