Man Creates Makeshift Toll Booth at Chicago Expressway Entrance, Causes Traffic Confusion and Demands Cash From Drivers
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS — Drivers were left stunned and confused this week after a man set up what appeared to be a makeshift toll booth at the entrance of a Chicago expressway and began demanding money from approaching vehicles. The incident, captured on video and shared widely on social media, shows the man standing in the roadway while holding a large STOP sign and positioning construction-style barrels to block traffic.
Video Shows Man Blocking Cars and Insisting on Payment
In the footage posted by Chicago Critter, the man can be seen standing directly between cars and the expressway entrance ramp. He repeatedly motions for drivers to stop before approaching vehicles and appearing to ask for payment before allowing them to continue.
Drivers seemed unsure whether the setup was legitimate, with some stopping momentarily as the man waved the sign. Others in nearby vehicles can be heard questioning what was happening. No official toll booth or Illinois Department of Transportation personnel were present during the incident.
Witnesses reported that the man appeared to have arranged several orange construction barrels in a line, attempting to mimic an official traffic control point.
Social Media Reaction and Safety Concerns
The video quickly spread across local social media pages, prompting concerns about safety and roadway obstruction. Residents noted that creating an unauthorized roadblock at an expressway entrance can lead to:
- Traffic collisions
- Road rage incidents
- Pedestrian danger
- Confusion for out-of-town drivers
Some viewers expressed shock that the man stood so close to moving vehicles while others questioned how long he remained there before police were notified.
No Official Toll Operation Was Taking Place
Authorities have not yet released additional information about the man’s identity or whether he was detained after the incident. However, officials confirmed that no authorized toll collection or construction work was scheduled in the area at the time.
Local drivers emphasize the importance of staying aware of surroundings and avoiding interactions with individuals attempting to collect money in unofficial or suspicious locations.
A Strange Traffic Moment in the City
Chicago residents are accustomed to unusual moments surfacing on local scanner pages, but this incident — combining traffic disruption, improvised signage, and direct contact with drivers — stands out as one of the more bizarre roadway encounters reported this week.
More details may be released as authorities review footage and speak with witnesses.
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