Stephen Ettema, a 40-year-old Chicago resident, is facing serious charges after a fatal DUI incident earlier this year. According to the Chicago Police Department, Ettema has been charged with one felony count each of reckless homicide and aggravated DUI involving death and bodily harm.
The arrest took place yesterday afternoon at around 3:41 PM, in the vicinity of the 12000 block of S. Peoria St., where Ettema resides. The task force responsible for swooping in and apprehending Ettema was that of the Great Lakes Fugitive Task Force, who worked in conjunction with Major Accident detectives. The incident, dating back to May 22, 2024, involved Ettema driving under the influence and colliding with another vehicle, leading to the tragic death of a 45-year-old man and injuring a 27-year-old woman, these details were specified in the arrest report by officials.
Ettema’s detention hearing is scheduled for today at the courthouse located at 2600 S. California. As the proceedings continue,, the community and the victims' families anticipate justice, keeping a keen eye on the unfolding events. The hearing holds immense significance, not least for the message it sends about the gravity of DUI offenses in the city of Chicago.
Information around the case remains tight-lipped, with the police department refraining from releasing additional details at the moment.
