Suspect Tried to Ram Officer's Vehicle Twice Before Arrest, Police Say

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Officers with the Pueblo Police Department (PPD) encountered a man they said was acting erratically and tried to ram a police vehicle two separate times before his arrest on Thursday, March 5. The suspect, identified as Jacob Shoptaugh, allegedly attempted to access the police department's secure parking lot, then tried to ram an officer head-on before fleeing. Minutes later, he allegedly tried to ram a patrol vehicle a second time before being found and taken into custody.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the dangers that officers can face when encountering erratic or aggressive drivers, and the potential for serious harm when suspects attempt to use their vehicles as weapons against law enforcement. It also raises questions about the suspect's mental state and the need for appropriate intervention and support.

The details

According to the Pueblo Police Department, the incident began around 12 a.m. on Thursday when dispatch reported a man attempting to access the police department's secure parking lot. The man, later identified as Jacob Shoptaugh, then left the area driving a white Hyundai Santa Fe. An officer found the Hyundai traveling in the opposite direction on Abriendo Avenue and said Shoptaugh tried to ram the officer head-on, but the officer was able to maneuver around the vehicle. The officer then attempted a traffic stop, but Shoptaugh drove off onto I-25. Minutes later, officers saw the Hyundai again, and Shoptaugh allegedly tried to ram the patrol vehicle a second time. The officer reversed the car to avoid being hit, and Shoptaugh drove off. Police later found the Hyundai unoccupied in a convenience store parking lot, where they located and arrested Shoptaugh.

• The incident began around 12 a.m. on Thursday, March 5.
• Shoptaugh allegedly tried to ram the officer's vehicle head-on on Abriendo Avenue.
• Minutes later, Shoptaugh allegedly tried to ram a patrol vehicle a second time.

What’s next

Shoptaugh is facing charges of attempted vehicular assault, reckless driving, and felony eluding. He was taken to the hospital for evaluation before being booked into the Pueblo County Jail.