A Chicago Woman Charged in Hit-and-Run Incident Involving Two Teens
A shocking incident that took place nearly three years ago in Chicago has resurfaced with the recent arrest of 39-year-old Linda Perea. Perea has been charged in connection with a hit-and-run case where she struck two teenagers riding a scooter. The incident occurred on the evening of September 2, 2022, in the 2800 block of South Kedzie.
According to prosecutors, Perea was driving a black Kia Soul when she collided with the two 15-year-olds who were riding a GOTRAX electric scooter. Instead of stopping to help the injured teens, Perea continued driving. She briefly stopped at a gas station where a stranger assisted her in removing the damaged scooter from her car.
Both teenagers suffered serious injuries in the accident. The girl sustained a fractured elbow and knee, while the boy broke his clavicle, as documented in a Chicago Police Department report.
Despite the severity of the incident, Perea did not report the accident and attempted to create a false alibi with her son while he was in Cook County Jail. Authorities were able to gather evidence from recorded jailhouse calls where Perea and her son discussed fabricating alibis and obstructing the justice process.
As a result of the investigation, Perea has been charged with two counts of leaving the scene of an accident involving injury and two counts of failure to report an accident involving injury. Judge James Murphy III granted the state’s detention petition, citing the “residual clause” under the SAFE-T Act, which allows for detention in cases involving great bodily harm or permanent disability.
This case serves as a reminder of the importance of accountability and responsibility on the road. Hit-and-run incidents can have devastating consequences, and it is crucial for individuals to uphold their legal obligations in such situations.
As the legal proceedings continue, the Chicago community awaits further developments in this troubling case.