Four pedestrians were severely injured after being struck by a vehicle outside Guaranteed Rate Field in Chicago on June 20, 2023. Prosecutors have identified the driver as 20-year-old Condelarious Garcia, who was never issued a driver’s license and has a previous accusation of fleeing police at a traffic stop. Garcia now faces four counts of aggravated reckless driving, along with misdemeanor driving on a suspended license and three traffic citations.
The incident occurred around 6:30 p.m. as fans were crossing the street to enter the stadium. Garcia was driving a silver Acura sedan and struck the pedestrians, including a 64-year-old man who was thrown headfirst into the sunroof of the car. Judge Charles Beach II, while setting bail, criticized Garcia for his disregard for the safety of others.
Garcia, a resident of the New City neighborhood on the South Side, has been ordered to be held in lieu of a $20,000 bail and will be outfitted with an ankle monitor if released. During the court hearing, prosecutors described the violent crash near the main gates of the White Sox stadium and the subsequent chase to arrest Garcia. However, no clear reason behind the collision was provided.
The victims, a 51-year-old woman and three men aged 24, 25, and 64, were at the front of the group of pedestrians when they were struck by Garcia’s speeding car. They were thrown into the air, with the 64-year-old landing in the sunroof. A police dashcam captured the victim’s legs and feet dangling through the sunroof as the car fled the scene. One of the Acura’s passengers pulled the man fully into the car.
After ignoring flashing police lights, Garcia was eventually apprehended by state troopers who caused the Acura to crash into the Dan Ryan Expressway’s concrete median. Prosecutors did not mention any drug or alcohol impairment as a possible cause for the crash. One of Garcia’s passengers stated that everyone in the car had yelled at him about the people in the street, but he disregarded their warnings.
One of the victims suffered a traumatic brain injury and remains unresponsive and intubated. The 64-year-old victim, identified as Charles Janczy, a die-hard White Sox fan and season ticket holder, suffered multiple injuries including broken ribs, spinal fractures, a broken leg, and a dislocated thumb. Despite his injuries, Janczy has been released from the hospital and is making progress in his recovery.
Garcia, who has never had a driver’s license, had two active suspensions of his driving privileges for failing to appear in court for citations. He has been charged in the past with misdemeanor fleeing and attempting to elude officers, driving without a license, and insurance. Garcia’s court-appointed attorney stated that he works as a package handler and has a 9-month-old son.
Judge Beach expressed concern over Garcia’s prior missed court cases and refusal to follow lawful orders when setting his bond. The judge emphasized the high number of pedestrians present on the street during a White Sox game. Garcia is expected to return to court next week to face the charges against him.
What previous driving-related legal trouble has Garcia faced, and how does it contribute to the severity of his current charges
En ranging in age from 30 to 64, were all taken to nearby hospitals with serious injuries. The 64-year-old man suffered the most severe injuries, including head trauma from being thrown into the sunroof of the car. The others sustained injuries ranging from broken bones to internal injuries. They are currently receiving medical treatment and are said to be in stable condition.
Witnesses at the scene reported the horrifying moment when the pedestrians were struck by Garcia’s vehicle. Many expressed their shock and sadness at the incident, and some even rushed to help the injured victims before emergency services arrived. The area around Guaranteed Rate Field was immediately cordoned off as investigators worked to gather evidence and reconstruct the accident.
This is not the first time Garcia has faced legal trouble related to driving. In addition to never having been issued a driver’s license, he also has a previous accusation of fleeing police during a traffic stop. This history only adds to the seriousness of his current charges.
Garcia’s actions have been strongly condemned by the court and the community. During the bail hearing, Judge Charles Beach II criticized Garcia for his blatant disregard for the safety of others. The decision to set bail at $20,000 reflects the severity of the charges against him.
If released on bail, Garcia will be fitted with an ankle monitor to ensure he complies with any court restrictions. This measure aims to safeguard the community and prevent him from causing further harm.
As the investigation continues, authorities are working to uncover the exact cause of the collision. Their findings will be crucial in determining the next legal steps and potential additional charges for Garcia.
In the meantime, the focus remains on the recovery of the injured pedestrians. The community has rallied together to support them and their families during this difficult time. As they heal from their injuries, they will undoubtedly face physical, emotional, and financial challenges. The hope is that justice will be served, and measures will be taken to prevent such incidents from happening in the future.
This incident serves as a reminder of the dangers of reckless driving and the need for stricter enforcement. Public safety should always be a top priority, particularly in busy areas like Guaranteed Rate Field.
This reckless driving incident serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible behavior on the roads, especially near crowded areas. It is crucial for us all to prioritize the safety of others and contribute to creating a safer driving environment.