Three Teens Charged After Stolen Car Hits Baltimore Officer

14-year-olds face aggravated assault and auto theft charges following reported break-in and police pursuit

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Three 14-year-olds have been charged after a stolen car struck a Baltimore police officer during a reported break-in incident on Sunday. The officer discharged his firearm at the vehicle as it fled the scene, and one of the teen suspects suffered a gunshot wound to the wrist. The stolen Kia was later found abandoned after crashing, and the three teens were identified and arrested over the following days.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of juvenile crime and auto theft in Baltimore, which has seen a rise in carjackings and other vehicle-related offenses in recent years. The collision with the police officer also raises concerns about the use of force and potential escalation during these types of encounters.

The details

According to police, officers responded to a report of a break-in on West Lombard Street just after midnight on Sunday. They located a stolen Kia sedan occupied by multiple individuals, and when an officer approached the vehicle on foot, the driver put the car in reverse, striking a parked vehicle. The officer then issued commands for the occupants to exit, but the driver reversed again, striking the officer and causing him to fall. The officer fired one shot at the vehicle as it fled the scene. A man across the street who appeared to be injured was also found, having been assaulted prior to the officers' arrival. The Kia was later found abandoned after a crash, and two 14-year-old boys and a 14-year-old girl were identified as the suspects through electronic monitoring and other evidence.

  • The incident occurred just after midnight on Sunday, February 20, 2026.
  • Two 14-year-old boys were arrested on Monday, February 21, 2026.
  • The 14-year-old girl was arrested on Tuesday, February 22, 2026.

The players

Baltimore Police Department

The local law enforcement agency that responded to the reported break-in and pursued the stolen vehicle.

Three 14-year-old suspects

The three juveniles charged with aggravated assault and auto theft in relation to the incident.

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What’s next

The three teen suspects will face a hearing in juvenile court to determine their charges and potential sentencing.

The takeaway

This case underscores the need for continued efforts to address the root causes of juvenile crime and vehicle theft in Baltimore, as well as the challenges law enforcement faces in responding to these types of dangerous incidents involving young offenders.