Drivers face charges after fatal hit-and-run accident in Waukegan
- Jorge Carmona was riding his bike when he was struck by two vehicles.
- The drivers of the vehicles fled the scene but were eventually identified and apprehended.
- Charges have been filed against both drivers, highlighting the community's concern over road safety.
In the early hours of November 10, 2024, a tragic incident occurred in Waukegan, Illinois, when 17-year-old Jorge Carmona was fatally struck by two vehicles while riding his bicycle. Policing investigations revealed that Carmona was hit near the intersection of Belvidere Road and Fulton Avenue around 12:45 a.m. Witness reports indicated that both vehicles involved fled the accident scene immediately after the collision, sparking a manhunt that lasted several days. Carmona was pronounced dead at the scene, amplifying community concerns regarding cyclist safety and the accountability of drivers involved in hit-and-run incidents. Following the initial investigation, police were able to locate one of the trucks involved in the collision on November 13, within the Waukegan area. Forensic evidence was collected from the vehicle, and a passenger disclosed that the driver indeed had struck Carmona. The subsequent identification and apprehension of the second vehicle came on November 14 in Vernon Hills, where the driver admitted to having collided with something. This information further fueled the police investigation. As a result of the collaborative efforts of local law enforcement agencies, the primary suspect, 34-year-old Jose Ramirez from Waukegan, was apprehended on November 22 in Kenosha, Wisconsin. He now faces serious felony charges including reckless homicide and leaving the scene of an accident, signaling a pivotal moment in the case. Ramirez is currently awaiting extradition to Illinois to face these charges and possibly stand trial for his actions that resulted in Carmona's tragic death. In parallel, a second individual, Monica Valladolid, aged 44, from Vernon Hills, appeared in Lake County Court to address a warrant on charges related to her departure from the accident scene. Valladolid was subsequently released while awaiting a court appearance scheduled for December 18, hinting at potential broader implications regarding responsibility and accountability among motorists involved in accidents. Together, these events have reignited discussions in the community about the safety of cyclists and traffic regulations, and how law enforcement manages hit-and-run incidents.