CHICAGO (WLS) — Early Sunday morning, a high-speed chase through downtown Chicago led to an officer discharging a firearm. A driver, part of a group of vehicles accelerating across the city, managed to avoid a tire spike as they headed towards the police, the Chicago Police Department reported.
Authorities responded just after 3 a.m. to a report of a sizable crowd gathered in the 300-block of East Balbo Drive, in the vicinity of Grant Park.
ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch
Upon arrival, officers encountered a fleet of vehicles racing down the street, prompting them to deploy a device intended to deflate the tires of speeding cars.
One vehicle, identified as a black sedan, evaded the deflation tool and sped towards an officer standing on duty.
In response, the officer discharged their weapon at the car, striking the vehicle without causing any injuries to those inside, confirmed police.
The officer suffered a minor ankle injury and was treated and released from the hospital.
The sedan’s driver was taken into custody.
No other injuries were reported. CPD’s investigative Response Team is investigating.
The Civilian Office of Police Accountability is also investigating, and the office involved will be placed on routine administrative duties for a minimum period of 30 days.
COPA asked anyone with information to call 312-746-3609 or visit https://www.chicagocopa.org/.
INTERACTIVE SAFETY TRACKER Track crime and safety in your neighborhood
Copyright © 2026 WLS-TV. All Rights Reserved.