Winnetka shootout: Homeowner exchanges gunfire with car thieves

WINNETKA, Ill. - There was an exchange of gunfire after a homeowner in Winnetka interrupted an attempted car theft on Monday.

Just after 5 a.m., three offenders were trying to steal a car in the 400 block of Sheridan Road when they were interrupted by the owner.

The homeowner exchanged gunfire with the offenders, but no one was injured.

The homeowner declined to speak on camera, but gave FOX 32 a play-by-play of what happened.

We obtained surveillance video of one of the perpetrators trying to get past a security gate. The masked man eventually entered the family's home through a front door which the owner said he forgot to lock. The homeowner told FOX 32 once inside, the thief removed keys to the family's vehicles, broke into the garage, and got inside the victim's Ferrari.

The homeowner said he and his wife were awakened when they heard their Ferrari engine sound. The father of five daughters said he immediately grabbed his gun and confronted the group.

Dozens of shell casings were found at the scene. Two of the offenders got away in a silver Audi. One ran away on foot, according to police. Fortunately, there were no injuries.

Neighbors said they were shocked but unafraid. Throughout the day, detectives were seen removing evidence from the property. The homeowner's Ferrari and Range Rover were dusted for fingerprints.

Police said it was an isolated incident, and they are looking for three offenders as no suspects are in custody.