17-year-old driver arrested after shooting and chase; 24-year-old passenger released at scene

Below is a statement from the Danville Police Department

On 8/21/24 at approximately 8:47 p.m., Danville Police responded to the area of ​​the 300 block of Buchanan Street for a report of shots fired. Upon arrival, officers learned that multiple shots had been fired in the area where a residence and vehicle had been struck by the gunfire. No injuries were reported at the scene. While investigating the scene, officers were advised that a black Ford Fusion was involved in the incident.

At approximately 9:18 p.m., Danville Police spotted a black Ford Fusion in the area of ​​South and Park Streets, just blocks from where the shooting occurred. When officers attempted to stop the vehicle to further investigate, the driver of the vehicle refused to stop and a chase began. During the pursuit, officers observed a firearm being thrown from the vehicle. One of the officers who responded stopped and recovered the firearm as evidence.

The Ford Fusion continued to the 900 block of Fowler Street, where the vehicle struck a tree and the pursuit ended. Officers were able to arrest the driver and identify him as a 17-year-old male from Danville. A 24-year-old male passenger was also found in the vehicle and later released from the scene.

The 17-year-old youth was initially accused of serious crimes against humanity, serious flight and escape, as well as obstruction of justice or resisting arrest.
The public is reminded that a complaint is merely an accusation and the accused is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

The investigation into this incident is ongoing and no further information will be released at this time.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to call Danville Police at (217) 431-2250. Or you can call Vermilion County Crime Stoppers at (217) 446-TIPS.