Armed Robbery Suspect Arrested in Phoenix Following Police Pursuit

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Police at the scene of an armed robbery incident in Phoenix

News Summary

Eddy Ortega Romero, 28, was arrested in Phoenix after an armed robbery at a hotel. Following a tense confrontation with police, where an officer struck him with a patrol vehicle, Romero was apprehended. He faces multiple charges including burglary and aggravated assault. The incident involved a firearm and a stolen purse, leading to a critical response from law enforcement. Further investigations are underway regarding the officer’s actions during the arrest.

Phoenix – Eddy Ortega Romero, a 28-year-old man, has been booked into jail on multiple charges following an armed robbery incident that took place on June 7. Romero was arrested after a dramatic confrontation with police that involved an officer striking him with a patrol vehicle.

The armed robbery occurred around 3:15 p.m. at a hotel situated near 48th Avenue and McDowell Road. During the incident, Romero allegedly brandished a firearm and stole a purse from a hotel housekeeper. The housekeeper quickly dialed 911 to report the theft and described the confrontation involving the suspect and his firearm.

Following the robbery, police were able to track Romero to a nearby gas station located at 43rd Avenue and McDowell Road. Witnesses reported seeing him wearing different clothing than when he committed the robbery, suggesting he may have attempted to alter his appearance. While at the gas station, Romero was observed placing the stolen purse on the counter, leading to immediate police action.

As officers approached to apprehend him, Romero fled on foot and reportedly attempted to reach for a handgun. This prompted one of the responding officers to strike Romero with a patrol vehicle, causing him to fall and pinning his leg under the tire. During this incident, officers found a handgun concealed in Romero’s shorts.

Romero sustained minor injuries to his ankle as a result of being struck by the vehicle and was subsequently taken to a local hospital. After receiving treatment, he was discharged and transported to the Maricopa County Fourth Avenue Jail.

At the jail, Romero was booked on seven charges, which include burglary, aggravated assault, and possession of a prohibited weapon. The court set his bond at $150,450, and he remains in custody awaiting further legal proceedings.

Meanwhile, the officer involved in the incident is under both criminal and administrative investigation as part of standard protocol following such occurrences. The Phoenix Police Department has made available a critical incident briefing video that includes footage related to the event, allowing for a thorough review of the circumstances surrounding the confrontation.

As the investigation continues, Sgt. Lorraine Fernandez has indicated that a definitive conclusion regarding the officer’s actions will not be reached until all facets of the investigation are completed.

This armed robbery case and the subsequent police action illustrate the complexities and dangers faced by law enforcement when responding to potentially life-threatening situations. The involvement of a firearm in this incident adds an additional layer of severity to the crimes charged against Romero.

The community is urged to remain vigilant as law enforcement continues its efforts to address crime and ensure public safety in the Phoenix area. As developments unfold, further updates will provide clarity on the judicial proceedings that will follow Romero’s charges and the outcome of the investigations into the officer’s conduct during the incident.