Police officer's partner injured; investigation into alleged cover-up
Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Police are investigating an incident where a woman was injured by a firearm in her hand, with conflicting accounts of whether it was accidental or intentional.
- The woman's partner, a police officer, is reportedly involved, and witnesses claim he chased and hit the ambulance transporting her to the hospital.
- The victim's family fears a cover-up, citing police refusal to provide reports and the officer's alleged actions.
Authorities are investigating a perplexing incident involving a police officer and his partner, who sustained a gunshot wound to the hand. The prosecutor's office in Colonias Unidas is examining the circumstances, but currently lacks sufficient evidence for charges. The injured woman claims the gunshot was accidental, stating she was unaware the weapon discharged while on a table. She also denies knowledge of her partner allegedly chasing and colliding with the ambulance that took her to the hospital. Her account has been described as confused by officials. The officer in question, identified as Carlos Meza, a sub-commissioner, has not yet been called for questioning. The incident occurred at a residence in Bella Vista, and a non-service revolver was confiscated. The victim's family has expressed concerns about potential retaliation and alleged police obstruction, stating they were denied official reports. They maintain that the officer, driving a black Hyundai Tucson, intentionally struck the ambulance carrying his partner. This claim was denied by a police spokesperson, though reports suggest the ambulance sustained damage. The prosecutor on duty did not respond to requests for comment regarding the alleged collision. Internal Affairs has reportedly been notified and has initiated an inquiry.
The victim claims that she received the shot accidentally and that she does not know about the episode of the crash with the ambulance.
Originally published by ABC Color in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.