Man Arrested for Chicago Carjacking Attempt
A 29-year-old man was charged after allegedly attempting to carjack two teens at gunpoint in late September.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Property Crime
On September 25, 2026, police in Chicago arrested 29-year-old Hernan Cortes for allegedly attempting to carjack two 16-year-old boys at gunpoint. Authorities discovered the suspect was armed with a replica BB gun modified to resemble a real firearm.
Why it matters
The incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding public safety in the city, especially involving suspects recently released on parole. Cortes, who had previously been sentenced to 14 years for a 2017 robbery, was paroled in June 2026.
Judge Luciano Panici Jr. ordered the detention of Hernan Cortes following his arrest for the attempted vehicular hijacking. The defendant faces charges related to the incident in the 6100 block of North Milwaukee.
The players
Hernan Cortes
He is a 29-year-old man previously convicted of a 2017 robbery who was recently arrested for an attempted carjacking.
Luciano Panici Jr.
He is a judge who presided over the legal proceedings and ordered the detention of the suspect.
The details
Cortes allegedly approached the vehicle and tapped on the windows with the modified BB gun before police intervened. Officers also recovered a metal axe from the suspect's waistband during the arrest.
Timeline
October 1, 2017: Cortes and an accomplice robbed Jose Rico.
2022: Cortes received a 14-year prison sentence.
June 26, 2026: Cortes was released on parole.
September 25, 2026: Cortes allegedly attempted to carjack teens.
Legal Context
The arrest marks a return to the criminal justice system following the 2017 robbery conviction of Hernan Cortes, illustrating challenges in post-parole supervision. This case highlights how repeat offenders move through the local justice system after completing portions of their sentences.
Residents in the area near North Milwaukee should remain aware of their surroundings following this reported incident. Local law enforcement maintains a presence to monitor for criminal activity and protect residents from similar threats.
The takeaway
This event serves as a reminder for drivers to stay vigilant, particularly in high-traffic or busy city blocks. Authorities advise reporting any suspicious behavior immediately to local police to assist in preventing such incidents.
Further reading
For more on local trends, visit Chicago Property Crime.
Source note: This article includes information reported by CWB Chicago.
