Morris, IL – A Willowbrook man was arrested Sunday morning after allegedly leading police on a high-speed pursuit across multiple counties in northern Illinois.
According to a statement from the Grundy County Sheriff’s Office, the incident began around 10:50 a.m. Sunday when Ottawa Police officers attempted to stop a white 2013 Volkswagen Passat at a McDonald’s on Norris Drive. The driver, suspected of DUI, reportedly fled the scene, prompting a pursuit along eastbound Interstate 80.
Officers from multiple agencies, including Grundy County and Minooka Police, joined the chase through the Illinois State Police Emergency Radio Network (I.S.P.E.R.N.). Deputies deployed tire deflation devices—commonly known as stop sticks—at the 107- and 119-mile markers, successfully damaging two tires on the vehicle.
Despite the flat tires, the suspect allegedly continued driving erratically until a Grundy County deputy conducted a PIT maneuver near the 125-mile marker, forcing the vehicle off the road. The driver, identified as Evaldas Skimelis, 38, of Willowbrook, then allegedly attempted to flee on foot before being taken into custody.
Skimelis was turned over to Ottawa Police and charged in LaSalle County with multiple offenses including DUI, aggravated fleeing or attempting to elude a peace officer, and speeding. According to the sheriff’s office, Skimelis registered a blood alcohol concentration of .247—over three times the legal limit of 0.08.
Additionally, Grundy County authorities announced Skimelis will face further charges including driving while license revoked and aggravated fleeing. Officials noted that Skimelis has three prior DUI arrests on record.
Skimelis remains in custody pending court proceedings.
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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