Police: Waukegan man arrested after shooting up car to impress girlfriend

A Waukegan man faces multiple weapons-related charges after allegedly shooting up a parked car while trying to impress his girlfriend, authorities said.

William Golden, 19, of the 1900 block of Washington Street, remains in Lake County jail in lieu of $50,000 bond after he was charged with reckless discharge of a firearm, criminal damage to property, and unlawful use of a weapon, said Waukegan Police Sgt. Gabe Guzman.

Guzman said officers were called to the 2300 block of Ridgeland Drive in Waukegan about 10 p.m. on Friday, June 15 for a report of shots being fired. He said officers discovered a vehicle had been shot full of holes and glass a lawn ornament destroyed, Guzman said.

Several shotgun shell casings were recovered at the scene, he said.

Detectives from the Waukegan Gang Intelligence Unit investigated the case and developed information that pointed to Golden as the culprit, Guzman said. Golden was arrested and gave a statement involving himself in the case, Guzman said.

“We were fortunate that this suspect didn't hit anyone during his little rampage,” Waukegan Police Chief Daniel Greathouse said. “I was advised by the detectives that this incident was not gang-related, but the suspect was firing the shotgun to impress his girlfriend.”