Montgomery County, Pennsylvania — A 21-year-old man is facing severe charges after authorities say he repeatedly rammed his Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen into police officers during a chaotic confrontation that began with a simple traffic violation.
The violent ordeal left two officers hospitalized and one fighting to stop his own bleeding as the suspect allegedly struck him multiple times, even while the officer was down.
Routine Traffic Stop Turns Violent
The incident began around 12 p.m. Friday in Whitpain Township, when officers attempted to pull over the suspect, identified as Dalton Lee Janiczek, for what officials described as a routine traffic infraction. Instead of stopping, Janiczek allegedly sped away, driving his luxury SUV over a center median on Skippack Pike to escape.
According to the Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office, police lost sight of him briefly before locating the 2024 Mercedes G-Wagen about 40 minutes later at a DoubleTree Guest Suites Hotel in Plymouth Township.
Suspect Reverses into Police — Then Targets an Officer
When police confronted Janiczek in the hotel parking lot, the situation escalated quickly. Investigators say he threw the vehicle into reverse, smashing into a patrol car several times.
Then, in what prosecutors describe as a deliberate attack, Janiczek allegedly accelerated directly at an officer on foot.
As that officer tried to defend himself by firing his weapon, the SUV struck him, knocking him to the pavement. With the officer wounded — and attempting to apply a tourniquet to his leg injury — Janiczek reportedly circled the lot and ran over the officer three more times as he lay on the ground.
Authorities emphasized that the actions were intentional, leading to the most serious charges now filed.
Arrest Made After Head-On Collision With Patrol Vehicle
The vehicle rampage finally ended when Janiczek crashed head-on into another police car, disabling his vehicle long enough for officers to take him into custody.
Two officers were transported to a local hospital, where one required surgery. Both remain in stable condition and are expected to recover, according to officials.
Suspect From Prominent Background Now Facing Major Felonies
Court records reveal that the accused comes from a well-known family. Despite the privileged background, prosecutors say Janiczek now faces life-altering consequences.
The Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office confirmed the charges against him include:
- Attempted murder of a law enforcement officer
- Aggravated assault
- Fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer
- Additional related offenses
He was arraigned Saturday and is currently held without bail until his court appearance scheduled for November 4.
Investigation Ongoing
Authorities have not released information regarding what initially led to the attempted traffic stop or whether additional charges could follow.
The investigation remains active as per The Post.
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