High-Speed Chase Ends in Grocery Store Bathroom Arrests: Chicago Duo Nabbed After Alleged Best Buy Theft, Crash, and Wild Suburban Pursuit
BLOOMINGDALE, Ill. — A dramatic crime spree unfolded across several Chicago suburbs Friday evening when a man and woman were arrested following a high-speed police pursuit that began after a reported retail theft at a Bloomingdale Best Buy. The pair’s escape attempt ended with a three-car crash and an unusual attempt to evade capture—by hiding in separate grocery store bathrooms.
According to the DuPage County State’s Attorney’s Office, Autumn Provine, 21, of Chicago, and Frank Cerda, 30, face multiple charges stemming from the incident, which began with the theft of several electronics valued at over $600.
What Happened:
Around 6:00 p.m. Friday, authorities say Cerda entered a Best Buy in Bloomingdale and took a Shark hair dryer, two Polaroid cameras, and film, totaling approximately $621.97. After leaving the store, Cerda reportedly entered a black Lexus RX300, with Provine behind the wheel.
Shortly after the alleged theft, a Bloomingdale police officer spotted the vehicle on Army Trail Road near Gladstone Drive and attempted a traffic stop. Instead of complying, Provine allegedly sped away at nearly 55 mph in a 25-mph zone, prompting a police pursuit.
In an effort to stop the vehicle, officers deployed a spike strip, which successfully deflated one of the rear tires. However, Provine continued driving southbound on Glen Ellyn Road, according to prosecutors. Due to escalating risk, the police ended their active pursuit.
But the drama didn’t stop there. Just six minutes later, Glen Ellyn police spotted the same Lexus and made another attempt to stop it—again without success.
At around 6:33 p.m., the Lexus was involved in a three-vehicle crash at Main Street and Roosevelt Road in Lombard. One person was taken to the hospital with injuries, though their condition was not immediately disclosed.
Following the crash, Provine and Cerda allegedly abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot, eventually entering a Jewel-Osco grocery store on South Main Street. Authorities say they attempted to hide in separate bathrooms, where they were eventually located and taken into custody without further incident.
Charges and Legal Proceedings:
Autumn Provine is now facing a Class 4 felony charge of aggravated fleeing and eluding a police officer, along with 19 additional misdemeanor and petty traffic offenses. These include attempting to leave the scene of an accident involving injury, improper lane usage, and using unsafe tires.
Frank Cerda has been charged with one count of retail theft, a Class 3 felony. He has been released under the condition that he avoid entering any Best Buy locations while awaiting trial. Provine remains in custody pending her next court date.
Law Enforcement Reacts:
DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin praised the joint efforts of the multiple police departments involved.
“Once again, the apprehension of the defendants in this case sends a strong message: in DuPage County, if you flee from the police, you will be caught, charged, and prosecuted,” Berlin said. “If you see lights and hear sirens, pull over and do not attempt to flee, as this puts the public and officers at serious risk.”
Bloomingdale Director of Public Safety Frank Giammarese echoed the sentiment:
“This is a great example of multiple agencies working together to apprehend alleged criminals. Thank you to all involved and to State’s Attorney Bob Berlin for seeking justice to protect our citizens and businesses.”
What’s Next:
Provine remains in jail while she awaits her next court appearance. Cerda, while currently released, will face prosecution for felony retail theft. Meanwhile, authorities continue to investigate all aspects of the case, including the crash and injuries sustained by at least one uninvolved motorist.
The incident highlights the coordinated efforts of law enforcement in DuPage County and the risks posed when suspects attempt to evade justice through reckless behavior.