Teen charged in Chinatown carjacking, beating of 61-year-old man; 3 others being sough, police say
Police said a total of 4 offenders were involved, however, just one man is now in custody as 3 others are being sought
CHICAGO (WLS) -- Police announced charges Friday in the carjacking and beating of a 61-year-old father in Chicago's Chinatown five months ago.
The family also confirmed to ABC7 that they were notified of an arrest in the case Friday morning.
WATCH: Police announce charges after suspect arrested in Chinatown carjacking, beating of Jin Lew
Police said a total of four offenders were involved in this brutal attack, however, just one man is now in custody as the three others are being sought.
"We've worked hand in hand with the family since this happened back in April, and I'm at least glad that we were able to hold somebody accountable today," said Cmdr. Don Jerome, with the Chicago Police Department.
Jin Lew, 61, was carjacked, robbed and severely beaten in April. He was found unconscious by a street sweeper near 25th Place and Princeton.
"When this happened, it happened a block away from my house, so it hit home very closely with me, quite literally. And we've been working closely with the 9th District and with his family," said 11th Ward Alderwoman Nicole Lee.
Police charged 18-year-old Termaine Patterson with multiple felonies, including attempted murder and aggravated vehicular hijacking.
A juvenile has also been arrested for possession of Lew's stolen vehicle, but not in connection with the attack, police added.
Investigators said surveillance video on the morning of April 7 showed Lew in his vehicle being trailed by another vehicle, which police said was stolen. The video then shows the moments before and after the attack as several offenders run to and from Lew's location.
Police said they were able to track the suspects, in part, through Lew's stolen credit cards.
"Credit card was used at several locations and then based upon where it was used, the detectives were able to go gather some video, which eventually led to us getting some better facial shots of these offenders," said Chief Brendan Deenihan, with the Chicago Police Department.
"I think when things like this happen, it's very easy for people in the public to be discouraged about whether or not crimes are being solved. This is a case in point, the hard work of the Chicago Police Department," Ald. Lee said.
Family members said Lew spent about a month in a coma after sustaining a traumatic brain injury. He's undergone multiple surgeries and relatives said he's now in a rehabilitation facility. He's able to walk with the aid of a walker and he's able to talk, but he still needs 24-hour supervision.
One of Lew's sons said the family is relieved and grateful for the efforts of CPD. They said a weight has been lifted from their shoulders with this arrest and the family is now hoping for justice while remaining focused on caring for their father.
