Richfield Man Charged After Allegedly Striking Ex-Girlfriend With Vehicle
Published: July 30th, 2026.
RICHFIELD: A Richfield man is facing multiple felony charges after prosecutors allege he intentionally struck his ex-girlfriend with a vehicle, leaving her with serious injuries that are expected to require multiple surgeries.
According to a criminal complaint filed in Hennepin County, Damian Israel Loja Pacheco, 33, is charged with second-degree assault with a dangerous weapon, criminal vehicular operation causing substantial bodily harm while under the influence of alcohol, third-degree assault, and taking or driving a motor vehicle without the owner's consent.
The incident allegedly occurred July 28 in the 6XXX block of Humboldt Avenue South in Richfield.
According to the complaint, officers responded shortly before 6 p.m. after receiving reports that a woman had been struck by a vehicle. Responding officers found the victim with significant injuries, and she was transported to a local hospital.
Court documents allege the victim had recently ended her relationship with Loja Pacheco and was staying at another residence. Prosecutors say Loja Pacheco went to the residence uninvited after contacting her throughout the day regarding a set of keys.
According to the complaint, an argument followed over a vehicle. Prosecutors allege Loja Pacheco drove away in the victim's vehicle and, during the encounter, struck his ex-girlfriend before leaving the scene.
The complaint further alleges he later returned briefly before leaving the area in a separate vehicle.
Officers later located Loja Pacheco and took him into custody after a brief foot pursuit. According to the complaint, officers detected the odor of alcohol, recovered the victim's vehicle keys from his possession, and observed open alcoholic beverage containers inside his vehicle. Investigators also obtained a warrant for a blood sample, and the results were pending when charges were filed.
According to the complaint, the victim suffered multiple fractures to her foot and is expected to undergo multiple surgeries. Prosecutors allege the injuries could have lasting effects.
Loja Pacheco remains in custody at the Hennepin County Jail. The charges are allegations, and he is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.