On 03/16/2026, at approximately 5:03 p.m., Macomb Police Officers responded to a business in the 1400 block of E. Jackson St. to a report of a male subject that had inappropriately touched a juvenile female within the business. The suspect male had fled the area and was unable to be identified. It was determined the victim was not physically injured.
Through a coordinated investigation with local business and community members, Macomb Police Officers were able to identify the suspect’s vehicle as an older white minivan. Upon a canvass of the area, the suspect was located at a hotel in the 1600 block of E. Jackson St.
Officers were able to identify the vehicle’s registered owner and coordinated with hotel staff to contact the suspect. This led to the identification and arrest of Edgar Salazar-Gutierrez Jr. (19, Hoffman Estates, IL) who matched the description shown in the video surveillance of the incident. Salazar-Gutierrez Jr. admitted to the act, and that he entered the business specifically to grope one of the juveniles.
Salazar-Gutierrez Jr. was charged with Disorderly Conduct, Aggravated Battery of a Child, and Criminal Sexual Abuse. He was processed at the McDonough County Jail and later released from custody.
The Macomb Police Department appreciates the prompt assistance from businesses’ staff members and other community partners whose cooperation was instrumental in the investigation. Their resources aided in swiftly identifying the suspect, locating his vehicle, and facilitating his arrest. Community vigilance and collaboration play a vital role in addressing such incidents and ensuring public safety.
The investigation remains ongoing, and additional charges may be forthcoming. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Macomb Police Department at 309-833-4505.
***Courtesy of the Macomb Police Department***
