Chicago, Illinois – An 81-year-old Army veteran, Ernie Aimone, recently experienced a terrifying ordeal while delivering pizzas in Chicago. Aimone, who has been delivering pizzas for 40 years without incident, was robbed by teenage carjackers last Wednesday. The attackers confronted him, demanded his car keys, and one of them punched him in the face before fleeing with his 2015 Hyundai Sante Fe.
Aimone, a former Army sergeant, cleverly pretended to be unconscious after the attack, prompting the teens to leave. Fortunately, he only suffered minor injuries and managed to return home safely. His boss at Joe’s on Higgins, Frank Demonte, expressed concern for Aimone’s well-being, emphasizing that his safety was the top priority.
Following the carjacking, state police located Aimone’s stolen vehicle on an expressway, which led to a dramatic chase. The carjackers crashed the car during the pursuit, and authorities arrested a 15-year-old suspect. Unfortunately, Aimone’s insurance coverage may not fully cover the damages due to the commercial use of the vehicle.
In response to the incident, the Gladstone Chamber of Commerce initiated a GoFundMe campaign to assist Aimone in recovering from the ordeal. The community has rallied behind Aimone, raising over $54,000 to support him. Described as a local legend by Chamber President Dan Ciolino, Aimone’s long-standing dedication to his work and the community has garnered widespread admiration and respect.
Despite the traumatic experience, Aimone remains determined to continue delivering pizzas, albeit with potential adjustments to his work schedule. His daughter, Robyn Aimone, praised his resilience and hailed him as a hero for handling the situation with bravery. The overwhelming support from the community has been a source of comfort and validation for Aimone, who now realizes the extent of his impact and the appreciation others hold for him.
The heartwarming response to the incident underscores the strong sense of unity and compassion within the community, highlighting the resilience and spirit of individuals like Ernie Aimone who persevere in the face of adversity. Aimone’s courage and dedication serve as a testament to the strength and character of those who continue to make a positive impact in their communities.