On August 12, 2025, at approximately 2:00 AM, the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office Regional Communications Center received a report of a suspicious vehicle parked near the 700 block of North Powers Boulevard (near Highway 24) in unincorporated El Paso County.
The vehicle, a Ford F-250, was parked outside a closed business previously targeted by criminal activity. Patrol deputies responded and activated their emergency lights to identify themselves before approaching. The driver, an adult male, immediately shifted into reverse to flee.
Deputies positioned their patrol units to block the vehicle; the driver accelerated forward, striking a marked patrol car.
Despite the collision, deputies successfully prevented his escape by vehicle. However, the driver then fled on foot.
After a brief foot pursuit, deputies apprehended the suspect, identified as 38-year-old Damian Garnett, a previously convicted felon. The vehicle he was driving had been reported stolen in Colorado Springs within the past week.
“I am proud of our deputies for their quick response and decisive actions in bringing this dangerous situation to a safe conclusion,” said Sheriff Joe Roybal. “Their commitment to protecting our community, including the businesses which serve our citizens, helps ensure El Paso County remains a place where people can live and work safely.”
Garnett was transported to the El Paso County Jail and booked on the following charges:
-Second Degree Motor Vehicle Theft
-Attempted Assault on a Peace Officer
-Vehicular Eluding
-Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
-Resisting Arrest
-Possession of a Financial Transaction Device
-Criminal Mischief
He is being held on a $3,000 bond.
