Aurora, IL – Police in Aurora recovered two firearms during separate traffic stops last week, leading to felony charges against a local man and a juvenile, authorities announced Monday.
According to the Aurora Police Department, the first incident occurred on September 25 at 11:06 p.m. when officers stopped a Nissan Rogue near North Avenue and Jackson Street for traffic violations. Investigators reported that the driver, 32-year-old Gabriel G. Martinez of Aurora, showed signs of impairment. A defaced handgun was found under his seat. Martinez, described by police as a documented gang member, was arrested and now faces multiple felony charges, including possession of a firearm by a gang member and possession of a weapon with a prior conviction.
The second case unfolded on September 27 at 4:35 p.m. near East Benton Street at Jackson Street, close to Waldo Middle School. Police said a 15-year-old male, also identified as a gang member, fled a vehicle during a traffic stop before being caught on school property. Officers recovered a loaded handgun with 15 rounds from his pants leg. He faces felony charges including unlawful possession of a firearm near a school, aggravated unlawful use of a weapon, and resisting a peace officer.
Both cases are being prosecuted by the Kane County State’s Attorney’s Office. Aurora Police Chief Matt Thomas emphasized that the arrests highlight the department’s focus on reducing gun violence and keeping neighborhoods safe, particularly when juveniles and impaired drivers are involved.
Anyone with information is asked to call the Aurora Police Department’s Investigations Division at (630) 256-5500.
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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