Montgomery County Police held a press conference on Wednesday afternoon to give an update on an incident that occurred early this morning on I-270 north that involved an officer being struck by a driver. The injured officer has been identified as Patrick Kepp, 36, who currently serves on the Alcohol Initiatives Unit. According to Police Chief Marcus Jones, Kepp has lost the use of both of his legs and remains in critical conditions.
The suspect has been identified as Frederick Raphael Mayorga, 19, of Frederick, MD. Mayorga is said to be well known to Montgomery County Police due to several prior incidents, and has a reputation for attempting to provoke officers into high speed chases. Prior to the incident, officers were monitoring Mayorga, who was seen driving a green Dodge Challenger recklessly at the Clarksburg Outlets and on I-270. Jones said officers did not pursue Mayorga.
A decision was made to deploy “stop sticks”, used to deflate tires of suspect vehicles on the roadway, after a citizen was almost run off the road by Mayorga. While Kepp got out of his vehicle to deploy the stop sticks near the Watkins Mill Rd exit on northbound I-270, Mayorga intentionally struck officer Kepp with his vehicle. A second officer successfully deployed stop sticks near Clarksburg Rd, eventually bringing the vehicle to a stop. Mayorga was apprehended and is now facing attempted first-degree murder charges. There was a second person in the vehicle with Mayorga who is not being charged and is being treated as a witness.
Kepp previously arrested Mayorga on May 26 for driving 136mph back in May.
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FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival
Get ready to experience the vibrant colors, tantalizing flavors, and infectious rhythms of the Caribbean at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival! Hosted by RHU LLC, this exciting festival is set to take place on May 18, 2024, at the picturesque 16700 Barnesville Rd in Boyds, MD.
Step into a world where the Caribbean spirit comes alive! From 12:00 PM onwards, immerse yourself in a sensory journey that celebrates the unique culture, cuisine, and music of the Caribbean. Whether you’re an African American, a Reggae or Soca music enthusiast, a wine lover, or part of the vibrant Caribbean diaspora, this festival promises to delight and captivate you in every way.
