Charges Filed After Uber Eats Driver Killed in Violent Chicago Carjacking
CHICAGO, IL — The Chicago community is mourning the loss of 28-year-old Daniel Figueroa, a dedicated delivery driver and father who was killed during a brutal carjacking on the city's West Side early Monday morning.
Authorities have moved quickly in the investigation, announcing that 33-year-old Montoya Perry, of Maywood, has been charged with first-degree murder and vehicular hijacking in connection with the death.
A Delivery That Turned Fatal The incident occurred around 2:00 a.m. in the 5500 block of West Flournoy Street.
The Attack: Figueroa had just completed a food delivery to Loretto Hospital when he was confronted by suspects attempting to steal his minivan.
The Struggle: According to investigators and surveillance footage, Figueroa attempted to intervene to save his vehicle. He was subsequently dragged and run over by the fleeing minivan.
The Aftermath: Figueroa was transported to Mount Sinai Hospital, where he was tragically pronounced dead. The Cook County Medical Examiner has officially ruled his death a homicide.
The Suspect and Legal Action Montoya Perry was apprehended by Chicago police approximately 10 hours after the incident.
Criminal History: Court records indicate that Perry has a significant prior criminal history, including multiple felony convictions.
Court Appearance: On Wednesday, a judge ordered Perry to be detained in custody pending trial.
Ongoing Search: Chicago detectives are still searching for at least two additional suspects believed to be involved in the initial confrontation and theft.
Support for the Family Daniel Figueroa is remembered by his family as a hardworking man who was striving to provide for his young son. In the wake of the tragedy, the family has established a GoFundMe campaign to assist with funeral costs and provide future support for his child. The community response has been swift, with thousands of dollars raised within the first 48 hours.
How to Help Authorities are urging anyone with information, or anyone who may have additional video footage of the area near West Flournoy Street at the time of the incident, to contact Area Four Detectives at (312) 746-8253.