Alleged Carjacking of Cab by Intoxicated Man in Lake County, IL

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The alleged carjacking of a cab in Lake County led police on a chase ending in Wisconsin. Carl J. Blahnik, 53, of Nevada is facing felony charges in the incident. Specifically, Blahnik is charged with fleeing an officer, operating a vehicle without consent, and DUI. Additionally, he was cited for multiple traffic offenses, including driving while revoked.

Blahnik was allegedly intoxicated and became angry after the cab driver charged him $26 in cab fare, which led to the carjacking. The incident occurred in north Suburban Lake County, near the intersection of US 41 and Russell Road. Kenosha County Sherriff’s deputies intercepted the cab around 11:21 p.m. and initiated a stop. Blahnik allegedly fled, weaving between lanes and exceeding speeds of 100mph. Eventually, the driver lost control and crashed into a concrete barrier, ending the chase. Blahnik sustained “minor” injuries and was taken into custody.

Nevada Man Charged with Stealing Lake Co. Cab, Leading Chase to Wis., myfoxchicago.com, May 2, 2010