URGENT UPDATE: An 18-year-old man from Lowell was arrested early this morning after police discovered him asleep behind the wheel of a stolen Kia sedan. Authorities found Oziel Gomez inside the vehicle, which was idling with its headlights on near Elm and Linden Streets shortly before 2:30 a.m.
Police became suspicious when they noticed a 2019 Kia Forte parked with a moving blanket covering a smashed rear window. A subsequent license plate check revealed the car had been reported stolen by a 27-year-old Lowell woman. Officers quickly removed Gomez from the car, finding the steering column destroyed, a common indicator of a rising trend in Kia thefts.
According to police reports, officers have noted that certain Kia models, produced between 2011 and 2022, are increasingly targeted due to a lack of engine immobilizers. Tutorials on social media platforms explaining how to steal these vehicles have contributed to the surge in thefts. A screwdriver, allegedly found in the driver’s side door, was consistent with tools used for such thefts.
When questioned, Gomez claimed he received the car from a friend but could not provide contact details. Notably, he acknowledged the vehicle might be stolen, referencing the broken window. A search of a backpack inside the car revealed a 9mm handgun loaded with nine rounds, along with another screwdriver and a flashlight.
After being read his Miranda rights, Gomez confessed to using the stolen car for about two days. He stated, “I think so,” when asked if he was aware the vehicle had been stolen. Ultimately, he admitted ownership of the backpack containing the firearm.
Following the incident, Gomez was arraigned in Lowell District Court before Judge John Coffey, where he was ordered held without bail. A 58A dangerousness hearing is set for Monday to assess whether he poses a threat to the community. He faces multiple charges, including improper storage of a firearm, carrying a firearm without a license, receiving a stolen motor vehicle, and possession of ammunition without a firearm identification card.
Gomez’s attorney, Martin Ryan, was not immediately available for comment. This incident highlights the ongoing issues related to car thefts in the area and raises concerns about public safety.
Stay tuned for updates as this story develops. Follow Aaron Curtis on X @aselahcurtis or on Bluesky @aaronscurtis.bsky.social.
