UPDATE: An 18-year-old man was arrested early Wednesday morning in Lowell after police discovered him asleep behind the wheel of a stolen 2019 Kia Forte. Authorities report that Oziel Gomez was found with a loaded 9mm handgun inside the vehicle, which was idling near Elm and Linden streets shortly before 2:30 a.m.
Police grew suspicious when they spotted the parked Kia with a moving blanket covering a smashed rear window. A license plate check confirmed the vehicle was reported stolen from a 27-year-old Lowell woman. Officers noted a disturbing trend in recent days regarding the thefts of Kia vehicles, particularly models from 2011 to 2022.
During the investigation, police found the car’s steering column had been damaged, consistent with a method used by thieves. An officer stated, “Tutorials exist on YouTube and social media that give step-by-step instructions on how to steal a 2011-2022 Kia.” This alarming trend has led to an increase in thefts, with thieves only needing a screwdriver and a USB cable to start the vehicle.
When questioned, Gomez claimed he received the car from a friend but could not provide contact information for that friend. The officer asked if he would be surprised if the car was stolen, to which Gomez replied he would not, acknowledging the broken window.
A search of a backpack in the vehicle revealed another screwdriver, a flashlight, and the loaded handgun with a 10-round magazine containing nine rounds. After being read his Miranda rights, Gomez admitted to using the stolen vehicle for about two days, stating, “I think so” when asked if he knew it was stolen.
Gomez was arraigned in Lowell District Court before Judge John Coffey and is being held without bail pending a 58A dangerousness hearing scheduled for Monday. This hearing will determine if he poses a threat to the community. He faces multiple charges, including improper storage of a firearm, carrying a firearm without a license, and receiving a stolen motor vehicle.
As this case develops, authorities urge the public to remain vigilant about vehicle thefts, particularly for Kia models. The situation highlights the ongoing issue of car theft in the area and the potential dangers associated with illegal firearms.
Follow Aaron Curtis on X @aselahcurtis, or on Bluesky @aaronscurtis.bsky.social for the latest updates on this developing story.
