Carjacking has become a concerning issue in Cicero, with over 20 reported incidents since the beginning of the year.

Residents are alarmed by the violent tactics being used by the suspects, including pulling drivers out of their cars at gunpoint or using physical force. Local law enforcement officials are urging anyone with information to come forward and calling for increased police presence and patrols in the area. Drivers are being advised to exercise caution, especially when traveling alone or at night.

According to Morton East student Alex Padilla, “(Carjackers) went to one of our lockers where I work and stole the keys from one of my co-workers; they managed to open the car door and hot wire the car.”

This incident hits close to home for Morton East students as the carjacking occurred at the end of the school year on the East campus.

Morton East Dean Ms. Cortes shared a harrowing account of a carjacking incident that happened during finals week last year. She said, “I was leaving school when I was carjacked at gunpoint by an individual wearing a hoodie, face mask, and do-rag, who pointed a gun through the crack of my car window.” Ms. Cortes was seven months pregnant at the time and quickly exited the car while informing the carjacker that the keys were in the bag on the front seat. Fortunately, she managed to get away safely.

Local authorities have promised to bring the perpetrators to justice and ensure the safety of the community. As Morton East student, Alex Padilla stated, “We need more police presence to feel safe, and we hope the perpetrators are caught and punished for their crimes.”

The surge in carjackings is a concerning trend that the community should be aware of. Morton East students are advised to be vigilant and cautious when traveling to and from school. As Ms. Cortes emphasized, “It is important to be aware of your surroundings and take any precautionary measures to stay safe.”