URGENT UPDATE: An 18-year-old man, identified as Oziel Gomez, was arrested early Wednesday morning in Lowell after police discovered him asleep behind the wheel of a stolen Kia Forte. The incident unfolded shortly before 2:30 a.m. near Elm and Linden streets, raising serious concerns about rising vehicle thefts in the area.
Police reported that the vehicle, with its headlights on and idling, drew suspicion due to a moving blanket covering a smashed rear window. Officers noted an alarming trend of Kia thefts, with this particular model reported stolen just days earlier from a local woman. A check confirmed the vehicle’s stolen status, prompting additional officers to the scene.
Upon awakening Gomez, officers discovered extensive damage to the car’s steering column, a common trait in stolen Kias. “I am aware of a crime trend that 2011-2022 Kias are targeted due to the lack of an engine immobilizer,” wrote one officer in the incident report. He further explained that thieves can use basic tools, like a screwdriver, to start these vehicles, a detail corroborated by the discovery of a screwdriver in the driver’s side door.
Questioned by police, Gomez initially claimed he received the car from a friend, but could not provide a means to contact that individual. When asked if he would be surprised to learn the vehicle was stolen, he admitted he would not, referencing the vehicle’s broken window.
A subsequent search of a backpack inside the Kia uncovered a 9mm handgun, loaded with nine rounds, alongside another screwdriver and a flashlight. After being read his rights, Gomez confessed to using the stolen vehicle for about two days, eventually acknowledging, “I think so,” when asked if he knew it was stolen. He even described himself as “stupid” for using the car, clearly understanding the gravity of his actions.
Gomez faces multiple charges, 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 before Judge John Coffey and is currently being held without bail. A 58A dangerousness hearing is scheduled for Monday to determine if he poses a threat to the community as the case progresses.
As authorities grapple with a surge in Kia thefts, this incident underscores the urgent need for increased vigilance and community awareness regarding vehicle security. Follow the case closely as developments unfold, and stay informed about the impact on local safety measures.
For updates, follow Aaron Curtis on X @aselahcurtis or on Bluesky @aaronscurtis.bsky.social.
