UPDATE: A Chula Vista police officer sustained minor injuries after a hammer was violently hurled at their patrol vehicle Thursday afternoon. The shocking incident occurred at approximately 3 p.m. at the intersection of Brisbane Street and North Fourth Avenue, with two officers inside the cruiser at the time.
According to Sgt. Anthony Molina, the suspect approached on a bicycle, launched the hammer through the window of the front passenger side, and quickly fled the scene. The officers initially feared they were under gunfire, but surveillance footage from a nearby business later confirmed the assailant’s actions.
Fortunately, the officer seated in the passenger side only suffered superficial cuts from the shattered glass and was treated at the scene. Chula Vista Police Chief Roxana Kennedy expressed relief, stating, “This incident could have had tragic consequences. We will not tolerate violence against law enforcement officers, and we are grateful that our officers were not seriously injured.”
Witnesses, including two Caltrans workers, provided critical information that led to the suspect’s identification. The suspect, Luis Angel Ortiz, aged 29, was apprehended shortly after fleeing and is currently held at San Diego Central Jail on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon against a peace officer. His bail is set at $50,000, with an arraignment scheduled for Tuesday afternoon.
This alarming attack highlights ongoing concerns about the safety of law enforcement personnel. The Chula Vista community is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities. As this story develops, further updates will be provided, emphasizing the importance of public safety and community support for police officers.
Stay tuned for more information on this urgent matter.
