HPD: Armed robbery suspect leads officers on chase, crashes into pole

by khou.com staff

khou.com

Posted on March 8, 2010 at 11:11 AM

HOUSTON—A suspect was facing multiple charges Monday after police said he held up three convenience stores, shot at an HPD officer and led law enforcement on a high-speed chase.

It started around 8:15 p.m. when HPD was called about an armed robbery on Loop 494.

Witnesses told police a man in a Ford Explorer had held up a Stop & Shop, a Shell gas station and a Citgo, all along the same road.

Witnesses said the suspect, later identified as Moises Roman Mendez, fired his gun during all three robberies, but no one was shot.

Investigators said an HPD patrol unit heard the shots at the third location and pulled into the store lot in time to see Mendez jumping in his Explorer and taking off.

When the officer followed, police said Mendez made a U-turn and fired at the cruiser, hitting the front bumper before speeding away.

The officer gave chase, trailing Mendez up until the suspect lost control and smashed into a pole on FM 1314 at Old Sorters Road.

Police said Mendez wasn’t injured in the crash, but he refused to obey multiple commands from the officers to exit his SUV unarmed.

Investigators said Mendez instead grabbed his weapon, fired and started to get out with his gun in his hand.

Fearing for their lives, three HPD officers shot at the suspect. Mendez was hit at least two times and taken to Ben Taub. Police said he’s expected to survive.

Mendez, 29, has been charged with aggravated robbery, felony evading and aggravated assault on a police officer.

Officials with the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office said other charges could be filed.

Upon release from the hospital, officials said Mendez will be transferred to the Montgomery County Jail.

Montgomery County officers were working with HPD and the Texas Rangers to complete the investigation.