Peoria, Illinois – Four juveniles face felony charges after a violent Jeep carjacking in Peoria.
According to Peoria County State’s Attorney Jodi M. Hoos, the charges stem from an incident Tuesday morning, Feb. 17, involving the alleged theft of a Jeep, an attempted vehicular assault near Peoria High School, and a high-speed police pursuit through city streets during morning rush hour.
Hoos announced Wednesday that the four defendants — ages 13, 15, 15, and 16 — were charged as juveniles with multiple felony offenses. The charges include Attempt First-Degree Murder, Robbery, Unlawful Possession of a Stolen Motor Vehicle, and Aggravated Fleeing and Eluding. Prosecutors are expected to file motions to transfer the cases to adult felony court.
Authorities allege the juveniles stole a Jeep and drove it toward Peoria High School, where a 14-year-old student had just exited a bus. Investigators say the vehicle accelerated toward the student, who was able to move out of the way and avoid injury.
Police further allege the defendants later assaulted a 15-year-old in the East Bluff neighborhood, punching, kicking, and stomping the victim while recording the incident on a cellphone. The victim’s phone and jacket were reportedly taken during the attack.
According to prosecutors, the stolen Jeep reached speeds exceeding 70 miles per hour multiple times, topping 80 mph on three occasions and surpassing 90 mph at least once during the pursuit.
All four juveniles remain in custody at the Peoria County Juvenile Detention Center pending hearings.
The incident may raise concerns among students and morning commuters traveling near Peoria High School.
The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Peoria Police Department at 309-673-4521.
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