Man wanted in N.J. accused of box truck mayhem on Staten Island that injured multiple cops
A 48-year-old New Jersey resident, identified as Michael Rompa, has become the epicenter of a tumultuous incident that unfolded on Staten Island, leaving dozens of vehicles damaged and several officers injured. Rompa, wanted on charges in New Jersey, faces a litany of charges in connection with the wild scene, including assault on police officers, reckless endangerment, fleeing from law enforcement, and grand larceny auto, according to a statement from an NYPD spokesman on Friday.
The chaotic sequence of events began on Thursday, with Rompa allegedly behind the wheel of a commercial box truck that wreaked havoc across Staten Island. The New York authorities believe he was responsible for the extensive damage caused to numerous vehicles during the incident. Rompa’s charges also extend to the alleged theft of at least three vehicles, including the W.B. Mason truck pursued by officers on the fateful day, which was reported stolen.
Read more:
- Big city mayors want Federal help after Texas program brings thousands of migrants
- Georgia teens charged in connection to series of thefts in Vidalia
- Big city mayors want Federal help after Texas program brings thousands of migrants
Rompa’s wanted status was not limited to New Jersey, as he was also sought in connection with crimes committed on Staten Island. The unfolding mayhem drew attention from witnesses, with one describing the aftermath as a “really crazy scene,” recounting the sudden appearance of around 40 officers, both uniformed and plainclothed, converging on the location.
The NYPD’s involvement commenced with a 911 call received just before 6 p.m., reporting the stolen vehicle near the intersection of Bishop Street and Cranford Avenue in New Dorp. Responding officers identified a vehicle matching the description and attempted to initiate a stop. However, Rompa allegedly retaliated by backing the truck into three NYPD vehicles, resulting in one becoming entangled with the truck and being dragged 40 feet.
The pursuit came to a dramatic conclusion in Stapleton, near the intersection of Van Duzer and Beach streets, where Rompa crashed the stolen truck. Details about the contents of the truck at the time of the theft remain unclear.
Despite the intensity of the situation, all injured officers were listed in stable condition. Rompa, the alleged perpetrator, was also transported to a nearby hospital and is reported to be in stable condition.
The incident has prompted a comprehensive investigation into Rompa’s alleged crimes and the circumstances leading to the chaotic scene on Staten Island. Authorities are urging anyone with additional information to come forward as the legal proceedings against Rompa unfold. The episode serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable challenges faced by law enforcement officers and the imperative of community cooperation in maintaining public safety.
