Chicago, Illinois – An 81-year-old Army veteran faced a harrowing experience last Wednesday while delivering pizzas in Chicago. Ernie Aimone, a dedicated driver for Joe’s on Higgins for four decades, encountered teen carjackers on his route, resulting in a violent attack. Despite never fearing for his life during his years on the job, Aimone was punched in the face and had his car stolen as he laid on the ground, pretending to be unconscious.
The incident left Aimone shaken, with his car found hours later on an expressway after a police chase ensued. One underage suspect, only 15 years old, was arrested in connection with the crime. Unfortunately, the extensive damages to Aimone’s vehicle may not be covered by insurance due to its commercial use.
In response to the traumatic event, a GoFundMe campaign was launched by the Gladstone Chamber of Commerce to support Aimone in getting back on the road. The community has rallied behind the beloved driver, raising over $54,000 to help with the damages and show appreciation for his decades of service.
Aimone’s daughter, Robyn, expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support from the community. Despite feeling like a “coward” for not fighting back during the attack, Robyn reassured her father that he was a hero for surviving the ordeal. Aimone, known for his dedication to the job and love for interacting with customers, remains determined to continue delivering pizzas, albeit with some adjustments to his schedule.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by delivery drivers, especially in areas where carjackings and crimes are on the rise. Aimone’s resilience and the community’s response highlight the importance of supporting those who serve their communities selflessly, like the veteran who refused to let fear deter him from his passion for delivering pizzas.