President Donald Trump spoke out Tuesday after five Chicago police officers were injured during a dangerous overnight incident connected to what authorities described as a large unauthorized street gathering often referred to as a “teen takeover.”
Trump reacted to the incident on Truth Social, criticizing local leadership and expressing support for law enforcement officers injured in the line of duty.
“Teen takeover in Chicago. Five officers badly hurt,” Trump wrote. “Mayor and Governor are terrible. Should call for help!”
Chicago police said the incident took place shortly after 3:20 a.m. Sunday near Roosevelt Road and Loomis Street on Chicago’s Near West Side. Officers were reportedly working to break up a large after-prom crowd before the scene quickly turned chaotic.
Investigators allege that 18-year-old Rashad Johnson, a resident of Plainfield, struck several officers with his vehicle before ultimately crashing nearby.
Johnson now faces several serious charges, including five counts of attempted first-degree murder and five counts of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon. Police also charged him with firearm-related offenses and criminal damage to government property after investigators reportedly recovered a firearm from inside the vehicle.
Local reports state the suspect was allegedly driving the wrong direction on the roadway before striking officers, jumping a curb, and crashing into a police squad vehicle, a pole, and a fence.
All five officers were transported to local hospitals. Officials later confirmed the injured officers are expected to recover.
The incident has renewed concerns about public safety and large late-night street gatherings that have become increasingly common in some major cities across the country. Similar events have at times been linked to reckless driving, vandalism, fights, robberies, and other criminal activity.
Roughly 30 minutes after the officers were struck, another shooting reportedly occurred nearby involving a 19-year-old victim. Authorities have not confirmed whether the two incidents were related.
Some Chicago officials attempted to characterize the gathering as an after-prom celebration that spiraled out of control rather than a traditional “teen takeover.” However, many residents and community leaders continue expressing frustration over ongoing crime and disorder in parts of the city.
Trump has consistently argued that stronger support for law enforcement and tougher crime policies are necessary to restore order in struggling urban areas. Throughout his political career, he has frequently criticized progressive criminal justice policies that he says make it harder for police departments to maintain public safety.
The incident also comes as Chicago continues facing ongoing debates over crime, youth violence, and police resources.
Johnson remained in custody Tuesday and was scheduled to appear for a detention hearing as the investigation continues.