Hammond Man Charged After Moped Chase Ends in Swamp
Gary- A Hammond man has been charged after leading deputies on a high-speed moped chase through Gary before fleeing on foot into a swamp, according to court records.
Court documents state that around 10:45 p.m. on October 3, 2025, a Lake County Sheriff’s deputy observed two mopeds traveling south on Grant Street near 25th Avenue without license plates and changing lanes without signaling. When the deputy attempted to turn around, one moped fled north, while the other—later identified as Mason Stone, 18, of Hammond—continued southbound.
The deputy initiated a traffic stop near the I-80/94 interchange, but Stone allegedly tried to make several U-turns before speeding away. The pursuit continued south on Grant Street at speeds of 69 mph in a 35-mph zone, then west on 35th Avenue at speeds exceeding 60 mph in a 30-mph zone, according to the affidavit.
Stone reportedly lost control of the moped and ran into a swamp near 35th Avenue and Chase Street, where officers found him attempting to hide in the brush. Police said he refused to give up his hands for handcuffing until they used force to restrain him.
After checking the moped’s VIN, officers confirmed it was not stolen and last registered in Illinois in 2019. Stone was transported to the Lake County Jail and released to jail staff without further incident.
Charges filed October 4,2025:
• Resisting Law Enforcement – Level 6 Felony
• Resisting Law Enforcement by Force – Class A Misdemeanor
• Resisting Law Enforcement by Fleeing – Class A Misdemeanor
• Reckless Driving – Class C Misdemeanor (two counts)
Lodged in the Lake County Jail.
