Three Lubbock Police officers were injured when the eviction of a couple from an apartment turned violent.
Just after 1:00 pm, police were in the 3200 of 62nd Street. In addition to LPD officers, a Lubbock County Constable was also on scene.
The man who was subject to eviction, got upset and tried to leave. He was later publicly identified as Carlos Martinez, 32.
Police said Martinez backed an SUV into the LPD officers.
Police said one officer suffered serious injuries, another suffered moderate injuries and one suffered minor injuries.
Later police released the names of the officers as Saul Garay, Mark Ellison, and Donovan Powell. Powell’s injuries were the most serious, but early Thursday evening police said all three had been released from hospital treatment.
Police further said, “Martinez put the SUV in drive and started driving toward Powell who was lying on the ground. Thankfully he was able to jump out of the way before being run over. “
As Martinez drove away, an officer successfully got a child out of the SUV.
Police fired shots at the SUV. But Martinez got away. The SUV was later spotted at 73rd Street and Joliet Avenue. Police said Martinez was no longer in it, and police set up a perimeter between Indiana Avenue and Gary Avenue and between 74th Street and 78th Street.
Police provided an update at about 2:30 pm and at that time, the suspect was not yet caught. A further update was provided after 3:00 pm with the name and a photo.
Police said, “We now have a warrant for 3 counts of aggravated assault on a peace officer for Martinez.” There are also still outstanding warrants for Martinez.
Martinez was described as a Hispanic Male wearing blue jeans and a brown jacket.
Lubbock ISD released a statement because local schools were near the incident.
Three Lubbock ISD campuses were on heightened security this afternoon [Thursday] due to law enforcement activity in South Lubbock, resulting from a police chase. Doors at the schools are locked during the school day as part of our normal safety protocol. Outdoor activities were suspended this afternoon. Parents of students at Honey, Miller and Waters Elementary received a call, through the district’s automated calling system, to let them know their students were safe and to make them aware of the increased police presence in the area. No students were ever in danger and normal instruction continued throughout the afternoon. Lubbock ISD police will be present at the campuses to monitor dismissal.