Theft suspect shot by police in Waikele is charged
Advertiser Staff
A 23-year-old man who was shot by police as they attempted to arrest him at a Waikele fast-food restaurant Wednesday was charged last night in connection with the case.
Jeremiah Lopez was charged with first-degree assault, two counts of assault on a law enforcement officer, auto theft, terroristic threatening, criminal property damage, and two drug charges.
His bail was set at $200,000.
Lopez is accused of ramming a stolen Dodge Durango into two police vehicles as officers tried to arrest him. Police had cornered the SUV in the drive-through lane of the KFC restaurant after receiving a call that the stolen vehicle was in the area.
Two officers were injured, including one who was knocked down by the SUV. Officers opened fire at the vehicle, hitting Lopez three times and critically injuring him, according to a police affidavit.