An argument at an Illinois gathering took a horrifying turn after police say one of the men involved left in his pickup truck only to return a short time later. Witnesses told Rock Island police that 26-year-old Edson Gutierrez intentionally struck the other man with his Chevrolet Silverado, leaving the victim with significant injuries.
Rock Island police responded to the 800 block of 42nd Avenue at approximately 3:13 a.m. on September 13 after receiving a report that a vehicle had struck a pedestrian. Officers arrived to find a 24-year-old man seriously injured and began providing life-saving care while waiting for firefighters to arrive.
The victim was initially transported by ambulance to UnityPoint-Trinity Hospital for treatment. He was later transferred to the University of Iowa hospital, although police did not provide an update on his condition in their announcement.
Investigators identified Gutierrez as the driver and learned that he and the victim had been arguing while attending a gathering in the area. Witnesses said Gutierrez left in a blue 2001 Chevrolet Silverado before returning shortly afterward and intentionally striking the 24-year-old with the truck.
Gutierrez Faces Attempted First-Degree Murder Charge
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Police took Gutierrez into custody and transported him to the Rock Island Police Department following the incident. He was later transferred to the Rock Island County Jail while authorities worked toward formal charges.
On September 14, Gutierrez was charged with one count of attempted first-degree murder and two counts of aggravated battery. Police also announced two counts of aggravated driving under the influence stemming from the incident.
The department did not provide further details about what investigators believe prompted the initial argument or what happened between Gutierrez leaving the gathering and returning in the Silverado. Police continue to ask anyone with information about the case to contact investigators or Crime Stoppers.
Jail Records Show Gutierrez Being Held Without Bond
Rock Island County jail records show Gutierrez was booked on September 13 and list several pending charges connected to his arrest. Those records include aggravated battery involving great bodily harm or permanent disability or disfigurement and aggravated DUI involving a crash resulting in great bodily harm, permanent disability, or disfigurement to another person.
The jail record also lists a pending charge for driving while his driver’s license, permit, or privilege to operate a vehicle was suspended or revoked. Each of the available charge entries lists Gutierrez as being held without bond, with bond set by a judge.
Police have not announced what they believe Gutierrez’s level of intoxication was at the time of the incident or provided additional information about the victim’s recovery. The charges against Gutierrez remain accusations, and he is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.