An 81-year-old veteran was attacked and thrown to the ground while delivering pizzas in a violent carjacking in Chicago’s Northwest Side last week.
Ernie Aimone, a dedicated pizza delivery man, was assaulted after dropping off a pizza in the Jefferson Park neighborhood. He recounted the incident to ABC7, explaining that he was ambushed from behind by an individual demanding his car keys.
After being sucker punched and fearing for his life, the Vietnam War veteran was knocked to the ground. He remained face down on the street to prevent further harm as the suspects drove off in his car.
Following the carjacking, Chicago police quickly responded and entered the stolen vehicle’s plate number into the system. Hours later, state police spotted Aimone’s car on an expressway and attempted to stop it, leading to a pursuit that ended in a crash.
While one teen suspect was arrested, authorities are still searching for potential accomplices. Despite the terrifying ordeal, Aimone expressed his intention to return to work once he has a functional vehicle again.
Community members have rallied to support Aimone, with a GoFundMe page set up by the Gladstone Park Chamber of Commerce to help him repair or replace his car. The fundraising effort has garnered over $38,400 from 913 donations, showcasing the outpouring of support for the beloved pizza delivery man.
