A high-speed chase that started in northern Illinois ended in a fireball near Genoa City early Saturday when a stolen SUV slammed into a gas line, sparking a blaze and bringing a multi-county pursuit to an abrupt stop. Deputies say the driver climbed out of the wrecked vehicle and tried to make a run for it, but a K-9 team helped track him down in thick brush. He was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment, then booked into the Walworth County Jail after being medically cleared. Authorities did not immediately report any injuries to bystanders.
How the chase unfolded
According to FOX6 Milwaukee, McHenry County deputies began pursuing a black Audi after it was reported stolen from Round Lake Heights. The vehicle reportedly topped 100 mph and at times jumped onto sidewalks as it tore north on Route 12 through Spring Grove and Richmond before crossing the state line into Genoa City, Wisconsin.
Crash, fire and capture
The Walworth County Sheriff’s Office said a deputy tried to pull the driver over near Spring Creek Road and County Highway H. Instead of stopping, the SUV blew a stop sign, left the roadway and hit a gas line that immediately ignited, WTMJ reported. The driver crawled out through the rear window and sprinted toward a tree line, but deputies found him hiding in dense brush and a K-9 was used to take him into custody. He was taken to a hospital for evaluation, then transferred to the Walworth County Jail.
Charges filed in two counties
Local court records and reporting identify the suspect as 34-year-old Brandon M. Jimenez of Round Lake Heights. Lake & McHenry County Scanner reports that McHenry County charges include possession of a stolen vehicle, aggravated fleeing to elude, reckless driving and multiple traffic violations. FOX6 Milwaukee reports that Walworth County counts include operating while intoxicated, operating without a valid license, second-degree recklessly endangering safety, operator flee or elude and resisting or obstructing an officer.
Public safety concerns
Authorities said the combination of extreme speed and erratic driving, including stretches on sidewalks, significantly increased the risk to residents and first responders. The ruptured gas line and resulting fire added another layer of danger as crews moved in to contain the scene, WTMJ reported. Firefighters worked to secure the area while deputies maintained custody of the suspect.
What happens next
Jimenez remains held at the Walworth County Jail awaiting court proceedings, and court filings show he has an active warrant in McHenry County, according to Lake & McHenry County Scanner. Investigations are ongoing in both counties as prosecutors and sheriff’s offices review the chase, the crash and the slate of charges now stacked against him.
