Head Strike Involving Metropolitan Personnel in Rampart Division
**The following information is based on a preliminary and ongoing investigation, which continues to evolve as investigators interview witnesses, review physical and electronic records, and analyze forensic evidence. The Department’s understanding of the facts and circumstances may change as additional evidence is collected and analyzed**
February 18, 2026 – Los Angeles, CA – Los Angeles Police Department officials report that on February 13, 2026, 
around 11:50 a.m., uniformed officers assigned to Metropolitan Division attempted to initiate a traffic stop on a burglary suspect in Rampart Division. The suspect, later identified as 26-year-old Harold Romero, was driving a silver sport utility vehicle (SUV). Upon noticing the officers, Romero abruptly turned and accelerated toward them, intentionally ramming multiple occupied police vehicles as he attempted to flee.
Romero continued a short distance before colliding with a Los Angeles Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) bus at the intersection of Bixel Street and 6th Street. He then exited the SUV and fled on foot, ultimately concealing himself behind nearby hedges a short distance from the collision site. Metropolitan Division officers located Romero, who refused repeated commands to surrender, resulting in a Non-Categorical Use of Force (UOF). During the UOF, Romero and the officers fell to the ground. An officer’s firearm became dislodged from its holster and also fell to the ground. The officer immediately regained control of the firearm and, while continuing to struggle with Romero, struck him once in the head with it. Romero was subsequently taken into custody without further incident.
Romero was transported to a local hospital for injuries sustained from the traffic collision. After receiving medical care, he was treated and released for booking. Romero was booked for burglary.
Three officers were also treated and released for injuries sustained during this incident. No community members were injured in this incident.
Force Investigation Division (FID) personnel responded and assumed investigative responsibility.
Source: Los Angeles Police Department
