Naperville Police Arrest Man for Fleeing Police and Gun Possession

At approximately 9:40 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 18, Naperville Police Officers on bicycle patrol in downtown Naperville observed a 2012 Dodge Charger at the intersection of Jackson Avenue and Main Street rapidly accelerate, emitting a screeching noise and smoke from the rear tires. The vehicle proceeded south on Main Street and stopped a block away behind an uninvolved vehicle waiting at a stop sign. As officers approached the vehicle with their emergency lights activated, the Dodge Charger fled from police, disregarding traffic control devices and heading westbound on Aurora Avenue.

A couple of minutes later, Naperville Police Officers on patrol observed the same Dodge Charger near the intersection of Ogden and Aurora avenues and followed it to a gas station, where they blocked the vehicle’s ability to flee, arrested the driver, and discovered an illegal handgun in his possession.

Anthony Favela-Diaz, 22, of the 2600 block of Creek View Road in Aurora, is charged with one count each of Aggravated Fleeing and Eluding and Aggravated Unlawful Use of a Weapon, both Class 4 felonies, in addition to Disobeying a Stop Sign, Disobeying a Traffic Control Signal, and Squealing or Screeching Tires.

“Fleeing from a lawful traffic stop is both illegal and highly dangerous, and I’m grateful that none of the other motorists or pedestrians present in our downtown at that time were injured by this reckless act,” said Police Chief Jason Arres. “Enforcement of traffic laws not only protects our roadways but also can often lead to the discovery of other crimes, like illegal possession of a firearm in this case. This continues to be a priority for our department, and I’m proud of our officers’ efforts to enforce the law and protect our community.”

Anthony Favela-Diaz

The Naperville Police wish to remind the public and the news media that a charge is merely an accusation, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.

About Naperville: Located 28 miles west of Chicago, Naperville, Ill., is home to approximately 150,000 people. This vibrant, thriving city consistently ranks as a top community in the nation in which to live, raise children and retire. The city is home to acclaimed public and parochial schools, the best public library system in the country, an array of healthcare options and an exceptionally low crime rate. Naperville has ready access to a variety of public transportation, housing and employment options. The city’s diversified employer base features high technology firms, retailers and factories, as well as small and home-based businesses. Residents also enjoy world-class parks, diverse worship options, the opportunity to serve on several City boards and commissions, a thriving downtown shopping and dining area, a renowned outdoor history museum known as Naper Settlement and an active civic community. For more information, please visit our website at www.naperville.il.us.