Johnson

 

On July 3, 2026, at 9:15 p.m., officers assigned to the fireworks display at Bicentennial Park responded to the playground area near Bluff Street, south of Jefferson Street, after receiving reports of a large group of juveniles causing a disturbance.

During the incident, officers observed a 17-year-old female in possession of an alcoholic beverage. When officers attempted to make contact, she refused lawful commands and actively resisted efforts to take her into custody. During this interaction, surrounding juveniles began interfering with officers and refused repeated commands to leave the area. The juvenile was ultimately taken into custody.

During the disturbance, an additional 17-year-old female allegedly pushed and spat on an officer.

A 13-year-old female allegedly kicked officers during an arrest, and an 18-year-old male allegedly pushed an officer.

As the incident escalated, officers were surrounded by an increasingly hostile group, with multiple individuals refusing multiple commands to disperse. Officers also observed juveniles igniting fireworks in the direction of officers and nearby attendees.

In response to the escalating situation and to restore order, officers deployed pepper spray to assist with crowd dispersal.

Following the conclusion of the fireworks display, officers worked to safely clear Bicentennial Park and surrounding areas to allow for orderly egress of attendees.

Despite repeated lawful commands to leave the property, several individuals continued to refuse compliance, resulting in additional disturbances and arrests.

The following juveniles were charged and released to a parent or guardian:

• 17-year-old female — Person Under 21 in Possession/Consumption of Alcohol, three counts of Resisting/Obstructing a Peace Officer, Mob Action, and Criminal Trespass to State Supported Land

• 17-year-old female — Aggravated Battery to a Peace Officer, Mob Action, and Resisting/Obstructing a Peace Officer

• 13-year-old female — Two counts of Aggravated Battery to a Peace Officer, Mob Action,

Criminal Trespass to State Supported Land, and Resisting/Obstructing a Peace Officer

• 15-year-old male — Mob Action, Criminal Trespass to State Supported Land, and Resisting/Obstructing a Peace Officer

The following adult was charged and released on a Notice to Appear:

• Tyreke Johnson (18, Joliet) – Aggravated Battery to a Peace Officer, Mob Action, Criminal Trespass to State Supported Land, and Resisting/Obstructing a Peace Officer

The Joliet Police Department wants to be clear that this type of disruptive and dangerous behavior will not be tolerated at community events. Parents and guardians are strongly encouraged to remain aware of their teenagers’ activities, whereabouts, and behavior, particularly during large public gatherings. Maintaining a safe environment at community events requires a shared commitment between law enforcement, families, and the community.

This incident was isolated in nature and does not reflect the overall atmosphere of the event, which was attended by thousands of community members who gathered safely to celebrate the holiday. The safety and well-being of everyone attending City events remains one of the Joliet Police Department’s highest priorities. Officers will continue working proactively to ensure community events remain safe, family-friendly, and enjoyable for all.