Cicero, IL (July 22, 2026) – Two state troopers were injured on Tuesday night, July 21, when a stolen SUV struck their squad car, causing a rollover at the intersection of 14th Street and Cicero Avenue in Cicero. The collision happened around 11:52 p.m. as the driver of the stolen vehicle tried to flee.
The troopers were taken to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Investigators said the wreck was not the result of a chase, but happened as the driver attempted to get away.
A third vehicle, driven by a bystander who was not hurt, was heavily damaged in the front end. One person was taken into custody, and charges are pending. The investigation remains active.
We hope for a full and speedy recovery for both troopers.
Why Do Side-Impact Accidents Usually Cause Rollovers?
Side-impact accidents are one of the most common causes of vehicle rollovers, especially when a taller vehicle like an SUV or truck strikes another vehicle broadside. The force from the side can lift a lower-profile vehicle’s wheels off the pavement, particularly if the struck vehicle is moving or turning at the moment of contact.
Vehicle height and weight are among the biggest factors in whether a rollover happens. SUVs and pickup trucks sit higher off the ground, giving them a higher center of gravity that makes them more prone to tipping when struck from the side. Passenger cars, being lower and wider relative to their height, are generally more stable by comparison.
Road surface and speed also matter. A vehicle struck at higher speed absorbs more force, increasing the chance that it tips rather than simply sliding. Curbs, guardrails, or uneven pavement can also act as a tripping point, catching a tire and causing a vehicle to roll rather than skid to a stop.