The driver was arrested after allegedly steering around a tire-deflation device and toward an officer near Columbus and Balbo drives.
CHICAGO, IL — A Chicago police officer fired at a vehicle early Sunday after its driver allegedly bypassed a tire-deflation device and drove toward the officer during a response to reported drag racing near Grant Park, authorities said. No one was struck by the gunfire.
Police were called to the area of Columbus and Balbo drives after receiving reports that as many as 25 vehicles were doing doughnuts in the street. The gathering occurred hours after Saturday’s Taste of Chicago activities had ended in Grant Park. Authorities had not released the driver’s name or announced criminal charges as of Monday.
Officers encountered a black Chrysler 300 carrying an estimated four or five people, according to police radio traffic reported by ABC7 Chicago. An officer said over the radio that two people in the vehicle had been seen with what appeared to be long guns. Police had not publicly confirmed whether weapons were recovered.
Police placed a tire-deflation device in an effort to stop the Chrysler, but the driver went around it, authorities said. The vehicle then headed toward an officer, who opened fire. An officer reported over police radio that the driver had tried to strike him with the vehicle.
The Chrysler initially escaped but was stopped a short time later, police said. The driver was taken into custody. Authorities did not say how officers located the vehicle, how many shots were fired or whether the Chrysler was struck.
The officer suffered a minor ankle injury and was treated at a hospital before being released, officials said. No other injuries were reported. Skid marks remained visible at the intersection later Sunday as visitors returned to the park.
The incident occurred near one of Chicago’s best-known public spaces and followed reports of a large group of drivers performing dangerous maneuvers on city streets. Police commonly refer to such gatherings as street takeovers, which can block intersections and create risks for participants, bystanders and responding officers.
Fourth Ward Alderman Lamont Robinson said the independent investigation should proceed without speculation. He said reckless driving and street takeovers endanger residents and first responders and should not be tolerated in the community.
The Chicago Police Department’s Investigative Response Team is reviewing the incident. The Civilian Office of Police Accountability, which investigates shootings involving Chicago officers, also opened an investigation. The officer who fired will be assigned to routine administrative duties for at least 30 days, authorities said.
Investigators had not released body-camera footage or additional information about the people inside the Chrysler as of Monday. The circumstances leading to the officer’s use of force, any evidence recovered from the vehicle and possible charges remained under review.
Author note: Last updated July 13, 2026.