Driver Who Allegedly Fled Police After Crash Offers Shocking Excuse for Hitting Woman

June 2, 2025 — Chicago, IL — A Chicago driver accused of fleeing the scene after striking a woman with his car is now in custody — and the justification he offered to authorities has left both law enforcement and the public stunned.

According to the Chicago Police Department, 29-year-old Devin Brooks was arrested late Sunday after a multi-hour manhunt that began when he allegedly struck a 38-year-old woman near West Garfield Park and then sped off, ignoring police attempts to pull him over. The woman was taken to Stroger Hospital with multiple fractures and head trauma. She remains in critical but stable condition.

When officers finally apprehended Brooks in a nearby alley — after he ditched the car and attempted to escape on foot — they say he offered a “bizarre and deeply troubling” justification for his actions.

“He told officers he believed the woman was ‘sent to follow him’ and that hitting her was ‘self-defense from surveillance,’” said a police source familiar with the case. “It was clear he was either under the influence or experiencing some sort of psychological episode.”

Brooks now faces multiple felony charges, including aggravated fleeing and eluding, leaving the scene of a personal injury accident, and aggravated battery with a deadly weapon. Police also confirmed that Brooks had a prior criminal history, including a 2020 conviction for drug possession and a separate charge of reckless driving in 2022.

Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene, with the vehicle jumping a curb before striking the victim, who had just exited a corner store. “He didn’t brake, didn’t swerve — just hit her and took off,” said local resident Maria Alston, who witnessed the incident.

Authorities are awaiting the results of toxicology tests to determine whether drugs or alcohol played a role in the crash. Mental health evaluators have also been brought in as Brooks’ comments and erratic behavior during booking raised serious concerns.

What’s Next: Brooks is scheduled for a bond hearing Tuesday morning at Cook County Criminal Court. Prosecutors are expected to argue for pretrial detention, citing the danger he poses to the public and his prior record.