On Friday, December 13, 2024, at approximately 1:19 a.m., two Mansfield Police Department (MPD) officers were injured during an encounter with a suspect at McClendon Park West, located at 799 W. Broad Street, Mansfield, Texas. The park closes nightly at 9:00 p.m.
MPD Officer Lemons was on routine patrol when she observed a black 2001 Nissan Altima parked in the lot after hours. The vehicle was occupied by 18-year-old Diego Battle, the driver, and 18-year-old Breana Suarez, the front-seat passenger. Upon approaching the vehicle, Officer Lemons detected the odor of marijuana and requested backup. Officer Jamison responded, and both officers instructed the occupants to exit the vehicle for a search.
Diego refused to comply, and as Officer Lemons attempted to engage further by opening the driver’s door, he placed the vehicle in reverse, striking both officers. Officer Lemons was knocked to the ground, and Officer Jamison was also struck but managed to avoid further injury as Diego switched gears and fled the scene. Breana exited the vehicle unharmed during the incident.
Mansfield officers pursued Diego to an address later identified as his grandmother’s residence at 6910 Cockrell Hill Road in Dallas. Diego fled into the apartment, but after a phone call with Officer Willis, an MPD negotiator, he surrendered without further incident. The vehicle was impounded.
Officer Lemons was treated by medics at the scene and released, while Officer Jamison did not sustain serious injuries. Breana Suarez was released at the scene. Diego Battle faces multiple charges, including two counts of Aggravated Assault on a Peace Officer and Evading Arrest with a Vehicle.
