Overview

• A stolen Jeep fleeing officers ran a red light at East 60th and South State Street and crashed into a car driven by 61-year-old Karen Henry and a CTA bus, killing her and injuring 13 others.
• The lawsuit filed June 18 in Cook County Circuit Court by Henry’s mother names the City of Chicago and unnamed officers and seeks at least $50,000 in damages.
• It alleges the officers failed to obtain chase authorization and violated CPD rules by initiating a high-speed pursuit, showing a “reckless disregard” for community safety.
• Since 2020, department policy has required a “balancing test” weighing the risks of a chase against the benefits of apprehension before officers may pursue suspects.
• The city has paid millions in settlements for injuries and deaths tied to police pursuits, highlighting ongoing public safety and liability concerns.