Hockey player mistakenly detained

Published: Nov. 29, 2007 at 4:29 PM

CHICAGO, Nov. 29 (UPI) -- Chicago Blackhawks hockey player Tuomo Ruutu was mistakenly detained by police who said he matched the description of a suspect in a nearby robbery.

Bensenville, Ill., Village Manager James Johnson said police stopped the forward, who was taking a quick 5-minute jog after team practice, because he matched the description of a suspect who attempted to rob an apartment complex at gunpoint earlier Tuesday, the Chicago Tribune reported Thursday.

Johnson said the robbery suspect, who did not get any money from the crime, fled the scene wearing a black hat, black jacket and black pants.

Ruutu was wearing his team sweat suit and a black knit hat when he was stopped by officers.

"He met the initial description," Johnson said. "This was just an unfortunate coincidence."

Ruutu described his brief ordeal in the back of a police car as "a fun incident."

Johnson said one of the officers asked Ruutu for an autograph after his identity was confirmed and a witness to the crime said he was not the robber.

"I believe this was one of his son's favorite players," Johnson said.

© 2007 United Press International, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
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