Juvenile caught in a stolen vehicle with a loaded firearm gets released to parents

CARBONDALE, Ill. (KBSI) – A 15-year-old is facing charges after stealing a vehicle over the weekend.

According to the Carbondale Police Department on October 14, 2024, at 12:40 a.m. officers responded to the 600 block of West Baird Street for a report of a stolen vehicle. 

Officers began a search and located the stolen vehicle in the 500 block of East Main Street using the license plate reader technology in the city.

When officers approached the vehicle on the 400 block of East Main Street several juveniles fled from the vehicle.

One juvenile male, age 15 of Carbondale, was caught after a brief foot chase and was in possession of a loaded firearm.

The juvenile was arrested for Aggravated Unlawful Use of a Weapon, Motor Vehicle Theft, and Resisting a Peace Officer.

Officers conferred with the Jackson County State’s Attorney’s Office and determined the juvenile met the criteria for incarceration in a juvenile detention facility pending court.

Several juvenile detention facilities were contacted, but none were able to house him.

The juvenile was then released to his parent. 

 This investigation is active and ongoing.