Two police officers in Florida were injured by a knife-wielding man in a wheelchair, according to a news release.
Winter Haven officers said they responded to reports of a man wielding a 9-inch knife at Central Tavern Friday.
Emmanuel Ruiz Mejia, 29, was approached by officers in a parking garage next to the tavern, WFTV reported.
"A large sword-style knife was seen on the back of the wheelchair and was immediately removed for safety reasons," the news release said.
Read: Pizza employee shoots, kills attacker wearing clown mask, police say
Mejia was asked to show his hands when he was seen clenching something under his thigh, police said. Mejia would not comply with the officers’ numerous commands and that is when an officer pulled out a Taser, the release said.
Police said Mejia still refused to show his hands and officers were forced to use a Taser on him. Mejia then pulled out a large serrated knife and still refused to surrender, police said.
Read: Woman passes note saying boyfriend holding her captive, deputies say
The officer tackled Mejia, who thrust the knife, injuring an officer on the face and neck, investigators said.
Another officer deployed his Taser, but Mejia picked the knife up and threw it at the officer, police said. The officer injured his hand while deflecting the weapon, police said.
Mejia was arrested and after being medically evaluated at Winter Haven Hospital, he was taken to the Polk County Jail, WFTV reported.
Read: Teens in custody after allegedly shooting OCSO squad car
“We are thankful that the injuries sustained to Officers Corley and Cruz are minor and they ultimately can go home to their family, said Winter Haven Police Chief Charlie Bird. “This guy had no regard for life whatsoever and he is where he belongs and hopefully will stay there for a long time.”
Mejia was charged with two counts of aggravated battery on a law enforcement officer, two counts of resisting officers with violence and four counts of resisting officers without violence.
About the Author
