Gunman carjacked victim during auto test drive, then crashed in front of passing patrol car: CPD

A 22-year-old Chicago man posed as a potential car buyer to carjack the vehicle's owner at gunpoint, then crashed moments later in front of a Chicago police patrol car.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 8:41pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a shattered car window reflecting the harsh light of a camera flash, conceptually representing the violent nature of this carjacking incident.A shattered car window reflects the harsh light of a police investigation, exposing the violent aftermath of a brazen carjacking.Chicago Today

A 22-year-old Chicago man named Michael Phillips allegedly arranged a test drive of a 2008 Mercedes sedan, held the owner at gunpoint during the drive, and then crashed the stolen vehicle in front of a passing Chicago police patrol car. Phillips then fled on foot but was apprehended by officers after a chase.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the dangers of test drive carjackings, which have become an increasing problem in Chicago as criminals take advantage of unsuspecting victims. The quick response and apprehension of the suspect by police also demonstrates the importance of vigilant law enforcement in addressing violent property crimes.

The details

According to prosecutors, Phillips met the victim at his home in the 5400 block of West Potomac Avenue around 11 a.m. on April 3 to test drive the 2008 Mercedes. During the drive, Phillips allegedly pressed a gun to the back of the victim's head and told him "You want to die? I'll kill you." The victim then exited the vehicle. Moments later, a CPD officer saw the Mercedes traveling erratically on Armitage Avenue, with no license plates and tires screeching. The officer witnessed the driver, later identified as Phillips, lose control and crash into two parked cars. Phillips then fled on foot but was apprehended by officers after a chase.

  • Around 11 a.m. on April 3, Phillips met the victim at his home to test drive the 2008 Mercedes.
  • Moments after the carjacking, a CPD officer witnessed the stolen Mercedes crash into parked cars.

The players

Michael Phillips

A 22-year-old Chicago man who allegedly posed as a potential car buyer to carjack the vehicle's owner at gunpoint.

The Victim

The owner of the 2008 Mercedes sedan who was carjacked at gunpoint during the test drive.

Chicago Police Department (CPD)

The law enforcement agency that responded to the incident, witnessed the crashed stolen vehicle, and apprehended the suspect after a foot chase.

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What they’re saying

“You want to die? I'll kill you.”

— Michael Phillips, Alleged Carjacker

What’s next

Phillips was detained by Judge Luciano Panici, Jr. on a charge of aggravated vehicular hijacking. He also had two active warrants out of Wisconsin at the time of the incident.

The takeaway

This case highlights the growing problem of test drive carjackings in Chicago, where criminals exploit unsuspecting victims. The swift police response and apprehension of the suspect demonstrate the importance of vigilant law enforcement in addressing these violent property crimes and protecting public safety.