A violent hijacking has left a local construction worker injured and two suspects in arrest, following a broad daylight attack in the South Loop that left the victim unconscious and stole his personal belongings. Prosecutors say the incident unfolded on May 22 when a man and woman approached the worker at Canal and Roosevelt Road shortly after 11 a.m.
According to the Chicago Police Department, Tavarus Winters, 36, and Tramese Winston, 29, allegedly assaulted the man, beat him until he passed out, and then stole his white 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche and cellphone.
Investigators Trace Stolen Phone to Walmart Transaction
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Authorities said surveillance footage and cellular data were critical in apprehending the suspects. Within hours of the carjacking, Winston was caught on video selling the victim’s phone at a Walmart in Evergreen Park, which is just southwest of the city.
Winters was apprehended a few days later, wearing the same distinctive green pants shown on surveillance at Walmart. Police said the retrieved video footage and transaction history from Walmart helped confirm witness testimony and connect the duo to the crime.
Victim’s Condition and Ongoing Recovery
The unnamed construction worker was discovered unconscious on the site by responding officers. Emergency personnel took him to a nearby hospital, where he eventually recovered consciousness. Although his physical injuries were not life-threatening, family members report that the emotional trauma and the sudden loss of his vehicle and phone have had a significant influence on his daily activities.
The victim allegedly informed detectives that he was unfamiliar with the attackers and felt he was targeted at random while on his lunch break.
Charges and Court Details
Winters and Winston were charged with aggravated vehicular hijacking, robbery, and possession of stolen property. Both suspects appeared in Cook County court earlier this week, and prosecutors presented a timeline of events corroborated by video and transaction evidence.
Winters was denied bail by Judge Dennis J. Porter, citing an extensive criminal background that included earlier convictions for robbery and assault. Winston, who appeared in court separately, was granted a $100,000 bond and remains in detention.
Reactions From the Community
Nearby residents and workers have expressed concern about the incident, highlighting an increasing dread of random violence in high-traffic business districts such as the South Loop.
“It’s terrifying. You think you’re safe during the daytime, especially near busy roads and shops,” said Rosa Hernandez, a barista at a nearby café. “This happened in the middle of everything.”
Local officials have repeated calls for more patrols and surveillance in the region.
Digital Trail: A Cautionary Tale for Criminals
Investigators believe the case demonstrates how digital breadcrumbs, such as phone geolocation, credit card usage, and surveillance footage, are increasingly assisting law enforcement in closing crimes more rapidly.
“People think they can just disappear into the city, but everything leaves a trace,” said Detective Martin Lopez, who worked the case. “Surveillance and data matched up perfectly in this investigation.”
What Happens Next?
The case has now entered the discovery phase. Prosecutors plan to bring Walmart personnel and computer forensic experts to testify about how the sale was related to Winston. Defense attorneys have yet to remark on whether the couple intends to plead guilty or seek a trial.
A preliminary hearing is scheduled for next month, during which new evidence will be submitted to determine whether the case advances to trial.