September 9, 2025 at approximately 5:43 p.m., Aurora Police Special Operations Group investigators conducted a traffic stop on a Chevrolet Silverado in the 0–100 block of South West Street after observing the driver commit a non-moving violation.
During the stop, officers observed a loaded drum-style magazine in plain view on the center console. The driver, 21-year-old Marcos A. Castro Garcia of Aurora, and a 19-year-old male passenger of Aurora, were taken into custody.
A search of the truck recovered:
- A tan Glock 19X handgun concealed beneath the center console
- Two loaded drum-style magazines containing 45 live rounds
- A Glock handgun case with an additional magazine containing 15 live rounds
Neither occupant of the vehicle possessed a valid FOID card or Concealed Carry License. Castro was confirmed to be a documented gang member.
Following a review with the Kane County State’s Attorney’s Office, Castro was charged with:
- Aggravated Unlawful Use of a Weapon by a Gang Member (Class 2 Felony)
- Possession of Ammunition without a FOID Card (Class 3 Felony)
- Aggravated Unlawful Use of a Weapon – No Concealed Carry (Class 4 Felony)
- Aggravated Unlawful Use of a Weapon – No FOID (Class 4 Felony)
- Aggravated Unlawful Use of a Weapon – Ammunition Immediately Accessible (Class 4 Felony)
Castro was also cited for not wearing a seatbelt. The male passenger was released without charges.
“This case is a strong example of how proactive policing keeps our city safer,” said Aurora Police Chief Matt Thomas. “Taking a firearm, multiple high-capacity magazines, and dozens of rounds of ammunition out of the hands of a documented gang member is a direct win for public safety. I commend our investigators for their vigilance and quick action.”
The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to call the Aurora Police Department’s Investigations Division at 630-256-5500.
Warrants and charges are not proof of guilt. The subjects listed in this release are presumed innocent and are entitled to a fair trial, where it is the burden of the State to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
-Aurora Police Department