Washington, D.C.—On Saturday evening, a fatal incident occurred when U.S. Park Police pursued two individuals suspected of driving a stolen vehicle through Rock Creek Park and its surrounding areas. The chase ended with the death of Nolberto Meza, 46, a food deliveryman who was struck by the suspect car while riding his moped on Connecticut Avenue.
According to reports from News4’s Paul Wagner, Tomas Anderson, 24, and Donnie Palacios, 19, were initially charged with second-degree murder for Anderson and unauthorized use of a vehicle for Palacios. However, prosecutors have since dropped these charges due to insufficient information provided by the U.S. Attorney's Office.
The incident began when Park Police spotted the stolen car near Rock Creek Parkway and Virginia Avenue. The pursuit led through side streets before heading south on Connecticut Avenue where it veered into oncoming traffic, hitting Meza’s moped. After crashing into a parked vehicle at Taft Bridge over Rock Creek, both suspects were apprehended.
The U.S. Attorney's Office informed News4 that they lack the necessary information to proceed with charges against Anderson and Palacios. This decision follows another fatal Park Police chase in March where an 18-year-old was killed when a stolen car crashed into a tree on Hains Point after being pursued by federal officers.
Critics, including Police Executive Research Forum’s Chuck Wexler, have raised concerns about the increase in dangerous pursuits following changes to Park Police policies. Mayor Muriel Bowser expressed her grave concern over these pursuit practices earlier this year, urging for stricter regulations and better training of law enforcement involved in high-speed chases.
The incident highlights ongoing debates regarding police chase protocols within federal jurisdictions around Washington D.C., emphasizing the need for a thorough review of current procedures to prevent future tragedies.