UPDATE: An 18-year-old man has been arrested in Lowell, Massachusetts, after police found him asleep behind the wheel of a stolen Kia Forte early this morning. The incident unfolded shortly before 2:30 a.m. near the intersection of Elm and Linden streets, raising serious safety concerns for the community.
Authorities report that police officers discovered the vehicle with its headlights on and a moving blanket covering a damaged rear window. This has become a worrying trend, as local law enforcement has received “multiple reports” of Kia thefts in recent days. A license plate check confirmed the vehicle was reported stolen from a 27-year-old Lowell woman.
Upon approaching the vehicle, officers noticed signs of tampering, including a “destroyed” steering column, consistent with a method of theft that has gained notoriety on social media. “Tutorials exist on YouTube and social media that give step-by-step instructions on how to steal a 2011-2022 Kia,” one officer noted in the report.
When police questioned the driver, identified as Oziel Gomez, he initially claimed that a friend had given him the car but could not provide any contact information for that friend. Officers found a screwdriver in the driver’s side door, which is often used in thefts of this nature.
During a search of a backpack in the vehicle, police uncovered a loaded 9mm handgun and another screwdriver. After being read his rights, Gomez admitted to using the vehicle for about two days, claiming he was “stupid” for doing so. He eventually acknowledged that he was “fully aware” the vehicle was stolen.
Gomez has been charged with multiple offenses, including improper storage of a firearm, carrying a firearm without a license, and receiving a stolen motor vehicle. He was arraigned in Lowell District Court and is currently being held without bail pending a dangerousness hearing scheduled for Monday. This hearing will determine whether he poses a threat to the community.
As communities grapple with increasing auto thefts, particularly of Kias, this arrest emphasizes the urgent need for enhanced safety measures. Officials are urging residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as it unfolds.
