23-Year-Old Charged In Deadly Chicago Hit-And-Run

Jose Cruz faces first-degree murder charges in a September 2025 crash that killed a 59-year-old bicyclist.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 1:54pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a cracked and damaged bicycle wheel rim, the harsh flash illuminating the twisted metal and creating a dramatic, gritty aesthetic.A damaged bicycle wheel serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of cyclists on Chicago's streets.Chicago Today

A 23-year-old Chicago man named Jose Cruz has been arrested and charged with first-degree murder in a hit-and-run crash that killed a 59-year-old bicyclist on the city's Southwest Side last fall. Police allege Cruz was driving a Dodge pickup that struck the victim on West 21st Place before fleeing the scene.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing dangers that vulnerable road users like bicyclists face on Chicago's streets, as well as the need for stronger traffic enforcement and protected bike infrastructure to prevent such deadly crashes. Hit-and-run incidents involving pedestrians and cyclists have become an alarming trend in the city.

The details

According to investigators, the fatal crash occurred around 3:15 pm on September 20, 2025 in the 2300 block of West 21st Place. Police say Cruz, driving a Dodge pickup, struck the 59-year-old bicyclist and then fled the scene, heading north on Western Avenue. Cruz was arrested on April 9, 2026. Prosecutors are expected to review the evidence and file formal charges, which could include life in prison under Illinois' first-degree murder statute.

  • The crash occurred around 3:15 pm on September 20, 2025.
  • Police arrested Cruz on the morning of April 9, 2026.

The players

Jose Cruz

A 23-year-old Chicago resident who has been charged with first-degree murder in the hit-and-run crash that killed a 59-year-old bicyclist.

Chicago Police Department

The law enforcement agency that arrested Cruz and is investigating the fatal crash.

Cook County State's Attorney's Office

The prosecutor's office that will review the evidence and file formal charges against Cruz.

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What they’re saying

“This case highlights the ongoing dangers that vulnerable road users like bicyclists face on Chicago's streets, as well as the need for stronger traffic enforcement and protected bike infrastructure to prevent such deadly crashes.”

— Streetsblog Chicago, Publication

What’s next

Prosecutors from the Cook County State's Attorney's Office are expected to review the evidence and file formal charges against Jose Cruz. A first court appearance and bond hearing will likely follow.

The takeaway

This tragic hit-and-run crash underscores the urgent need for Chicago to prioritize safety for pedestrians and cyclists through increased traffic enforcement, protected bike lanes, and other infrastructure improvements to prevent similar incidents in the future.