MT. VERNON, Ill. (WJPF) – Police in Mt. Vernon arrested a 17-year-old who was carrying a stolen handgun.

It happened around 3:30 p.m. Friday at the Willow Springs Apartment Complex. Mt. Vernon Police say officers were already watching the area as part of ongoing illegal firearms investigation.

Officers say they tried to pull over a vehicle seen leaving the area. The driver sped off, and after a short chase, all three occupants of the vehicle jumped out and ran. They were all caught and taken into custody.

A 17-year-old was found in possession of a stolen and loaded handgun. They’re facing charges including armed violence, possession of a stolen firearm, and resisting arrest. The two other people in the car were charged with resisting arrest. Police go on to say the arrest led them to search an apartment where they found an illegally owned rifle.