Stolen Dodge Ram Used as Weapon: Aggravated Assault & Hit-and-Run in Laredo, Texas

A Stolen Truck Becomes a Deadly Weapon on Laredo Streets

The morning of February 18, 2026, started like any other in Laredo, Texas. But by 7:45 a.m., a routine traffic stop would reveal a stolen vehicle being used in a violent assault – and a suspect with a long criminal history would be in custody. This wasn’t just another car theft. This was a case of a stolen truck weaponized against an innocent victim, with the Laredo Police Department uncovering a pattern of criminal behavior that put the entire community at risk.

At Attorney911, we’ve seen how stolen vehicles can become instruments of violence. But this case stands out for its brazen nature and the clear danger it posed to Laredo residents. When a 2023 gray Dodge Ram 2500 – reported stolen from the 2900 block of Juarez Avenue – was spotted at a local gas station, the victim attempted to recover his girlfriend’s stolen property. What followed was a violent confrontation that escalated into an assault with the vehicle itself.

The suspect, 22-year-old Ulysses Bernal, didn’t just flee the scene – he led police on a foot pursuit through Laredo’s streets before being apprehended in the 200 block of Matamoros Street. The abandoned Dodge Ram was later recovered in the 100 block of Lincoln Street. But the real story goes much deeper than a simple arrest. This case reveals systemic failures that allowed a dangerous individual to remain on our streets – and the legal consequences that now await him.

The Incident: A Timeline of Violence

February 16, 2026 – The Initial Response

At approximately 8:32 a.m., Laredo Police officers responded to the 600 block of Farragut Street. The call? An aggravated assault involving a previously reported stolen vehicle. This wasn’t just a property crime – it was a violent attack using a stolen truck as a weapon.

The victim had spotted his girlfriend’s stolen 2023 gray Dodge Ram 2500 at a nearby gas station. When he approached to recover the vehicle, a confrontation erupted that would change lives forever.

February 18, 2026 – The Chase and Arrest

Two days later, officers located Bernal walking near Farragut Street. When police attempted to detain him, he fled on foot – leading officers on a brief but dangerous pursuit through Laredo’s streets. This wasn’t just resistance to arrest. This was the behavior of someone who knew he had much to hide.

Bernal was finally taken into custody in the 200 block of Matamoros Street. The stolen Dodge Ram was recovered abandoned in the 100 block of Lincoln Street. But the physical evidence was just the beginning. Surveillance footage from nearby businesses would provide the crucial link that identified Bernal as the suspect.

The Charges: A Pattern of Criminal Behavior

The charges against Ulysses Bernal paint a disturbing picture of a repeat offender:

1. Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon – Using the stolen Dodge Ram as a weapon against the victim
2. Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle – Operating the stolen truck without permission
3. Evading Arrest or Detention – Fleeing from police officers
4. Accident Involving Damage to a Vehicle of $200 or More – Property damage resulting from the incident

But these charges only tell part of the story. Jail records revealed that Bernal was also served with outstanding warrants for:

• Burglary of a Vehicle – A crime that often escalates to more violent offenses
• Theft of Property between $2,500 and $30,000 – Significant financial crimes
• Drug Possession Charges – Substance abuse issues that often correlate with violent behavior

As of Tuesday afternoon, Bernal remained held in the Webb County Jail. But this case raises serious questions about how someone with this criminal history was still on the streets – and what could have been done to prevent this violent assault.

The Legal Implications: When a Stolen Vehicle Becomes a Deadly Weapon

At Attorney911, we’ve handled numerous cases involving stolen vehicles and violent crimes. But this incident in Laredo stands out for its clear demonstration of how stolen property can be weaponized against innocent victims. The legal implications are significant and multifaceted.

Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon: Texas Penal Code § 22.02

Under Texas law, aggravated assault occurs when a person:

1. Intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causes serious bodily injury to another, or
2. Uses or exhibits a deadly weapon during the commission of an assault

In this case, the stolen Dodge Ram 2500 was clearly used as a deadly weapon. The legal consequences are severe:

• First-degree felony: If the assault was committed against a family member or in a way that caused serious bodily injury
• Second-degree felony: In most other cases involving deadly weapons

Penalties can include:
– 2 to 20 years in prison for a second-degree felony
– 5 to 99 years or life for a first-degree felony
– Fines up to $10,000

The Stolen Vehicle as an Instrument of Crime

The unauthorized use of the vehicle adds another layer of legal complexity. Texas Penal Code § 31.07 defines unauthorized use of a vehicle as operating another’s boat, airplane, or motor-propelled vehicle without the owner’s effective consent.

But in this case, the vehicle wasn’t just stolen – it was used as a weapon in an aggravated assault. This transforms the crime from simple theft to something much more serious. The legal doctrine of “felony murder” could potentially apply if someone had been killed during the assault, making the vehicle theft a predicate felony for more severe charges.

The Hit-and-Run Element: Leaving the Scene

The fact that Bernal abandoned the stolen Dodge Ram in the 100 block of Lincoln Street adds another charge: accident involving damage to a vehicle. Under Texas Transportation Code § 550.021, drivers involved in accidents must:

1. Immediately stop at the scene
2. Remain at the scene to provide information and render aid
3. Report the accident if it results in injury, death, or property damage

Failing to do so can result in criminal charges – which is exactly what happened in this case.

The Bigger Picture: Stolen Vehicles and Public Safety in Laredo

This incident isn’t just about one stolen truck or one violent assault. It’s about a systemic problem that affects communities across Texas, including Laredo. Stolen vehicles are often used in more serious crimes, and this case demonstrates exactly why.

The Escalation of Vehicle Theft

Vehicle theft rarely occurs in isolation. Research shows that stolen vehicles are frequently used in:

• Robberies and burglaries – Providing transportation for criminals
• Drug trafficking – Moving illegal substances across state lines
• Gang-related activities – Used in drive-by shootings and other violent crimes
• Additional thefts – Criminals often steal multiple vehicles in a short period

In this case, the stolen Dodge Ram was used in an aggravated assault – a clear escalation from simple theft to violent crime. This pattern is all too common, and it’s why law enforcement takes vehicle theft so seriously.

The Role of Surveillance Footage

The Laredo Police Department credited surveillance footage from nearby businesses with helping identify Bernal as the suspect. This highlights the critical role that private surveillance plays in modern law enforcement.

At Attorney911, we’ve seen how surveillance footage can make or break a case. In personal injury and criminal defense matters alike, video evidence provides:

• Objective documentation of what actually happened
• Timestamps that establish the sequence of events
• Visual identification of suspects and vehicles
• Behavioral evidence showing intent and recklessness

In this case, the surveillance footage was crucial in connecting Bernal to the stolen vehicle and the assault. It’s a reminder to all Laredo businesses: your security cameras aren’t just protecting your property – they’re protecting the entire community.

The Legal Process: What Happens Next?

With Bernal in custody and multiple charges pending, the legal process now begins. Here’s what Laredo residents should understand about what comes next:

The Arraignment and Bail Hearing

Bernal will appear before a judge for arraignment, where:

1. The charges will be formally read
2. He’ll enter a plea (likely “not guilty” at this stage)
3. Bail will be set based on the severity of charges and flight risk

Given the violent nature of the charges and Bernal’s history of evading arrest, bail may be set high or denied entirely. His outstanding warrants for burglary, theft, and drug possession will factor into this decision.

The Pre-Trial Process

Several critical steps will occur before any potential trial:

1. Discovery: Both prosecution and defense will exchange evidence
2. Plea negotiations: The prosecution may offer a plea deal to avoid trial
3. Pre-trial motions: The defense may challenge evidence or seek dismissal
4. Preliminary hearings: A judge will determine if there’s enough evidence to proceed

Given the multiple charges and Bernal’s criminal history, the prosecution has significant leverage in plea negotiations.

Potential Trial and Sentencing

If the case goes to trial, the prosecution will need to prove:

1. Identity: That Bernal was the person who committed the crimes
2. Intent: That he knowingly and intentionally used the stolen vehicle as a weapon
3. Causation: That his actions directly caused the harm to the victim

If convicted, Bernal faces significant prison time. The aggravated assault charge alone could result in decades behind bars, especially given his criminal history.

The Civil Liability: Could the Victim Sue?

While the criminal case proceeds, the victim of this assault may have civil remedies available. At Attorney911, we’ve helped numerous victims of violent crimes pursue compensation through civil lawsuits.

Potential Civil Claims

The victim could potentially pursue:

1. Assault and Battery: Intentional harm using the vehicle as a weapon
2. Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress: The psychological trauma from the attack
3. Conversion: The wrongful taking and use of the stolen vehicle
4. Negligent Entrustment: If there’s evidence the vehicle owner failed to secure the truck

Challenges in Civil Recovery

Civil lawsuits against criminal defendants face unique challenges:

• Collectability: Criminals often have few assets to pay judgments
• Insurance coverage: Most auto policies exclude intentional acts
• Burden of proof: Lower than criminal cases (“preponderance of evidence” vs. “beyond a reasonable doubt”)

However, there may be other avenues for compensation, such as:

• Crime Victims’ Compensation Fund: Texas provides financial assistance to victims of violent crimes
• Restitution: The criminal court may order Bernal to pay restitution as part of his sentence
• Third-party liability: If any businesses or property owners contributed to the incident through negligence

The Systemic Failures: How Did This Happen?

This case raises serious questions about systemic failures that allowed a dangerous individual to remain on Laredo’s streets:

The Outstanding Warrants

Bernal was already wanted for:
– Burglary of a vehicle
– Theft of property between $2,500 and $30,000
– Drug possession charges

The fact that he was still at large raises concerns about:

1. Warrant enforcement: Are Laredo’s outstanding warrants being actively pursued?
2. Bail reform: Should individuals with multiple warrants be released pending trial?
3. Interagency coordination: Could better communication between agencies have prevented this assault?

The Vehicle Theft Epidemic

Vehicle theft has been on the rise across Texas. According to the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles:

• 100,000+ vehicles are stolen in Texas each year
• Only 50% are recovered
• Stolen vehicles are often used in additional crimes

The Dodge Ram in this case was stolen from the 2900 block of Juarez Avenue – a reminder that vehicle theft can happen anywhere in Laredo.

The Escalation to Violence

This case demonstrates how vehicle theft often escalates to more serious crimes. The progression is alarming:

1. Vehicle theft (a property crime)
2. Unauthorized use (operating the stolen vehicle)
3. Aggravated assault (using the vehicle as a weapon)
4. Evading arrest (resisting law enforcement)

This pattern is all too common, and it’s why vehicle theft must be taken seriously at every stage.

What This Case Means for Laredo Residents

This incident isn’t just a news story – it’s a wake-up call for Laredo. The same dangers that led to this assault exist on our streets every day. Here’s what Laredo residents need to understand:

The Reality of Vehicle Theft in Laredo

Vehicle theft isn’t just about losing property. It’s about:

• Violent crime: Stolen vehicles are often used in robberies, assaults, and other violent offenses
• Community safety: Every stolen vehicle represents a potential weapon in the hands of criminals
• Economic impact: Insurance premiums rise for everyone when theft rates increase

The Dodge Ram in this case was stolen from Juarez Avenue – a reminder that no neighborhood is immune.

The Dangers of Confronting Thieves

The victim in this case made a brave but dangerous decision to confront the thief at the gas station. While his intentions were understandable, this situation demonstrates why:

1. Property isn’t worth your life: No vehicle is worth risking serious injury or death
2. Criminals are unpredictable: Individuals who steal vehicles often have violent tendencies
3. Call the police: Law enforcement has the training and resources to handle these situations safely

The Importance of Vehicle Security

This incident should prompt all Laredo residents to review their vehicle security:

• Always lock your vehicle – Even when parked at home
• Never leave keys in the ignition – This is an open invitation to thieves
• Use steering wheel locks – Visible deterrents can prevent theft
• Install GPS tracking devices – Helps recover stolen vehicles quickly
• Park in well-lit areas – Thieves prefer dark, secluded locations

The Role of Community Vigilance

Surveillance footage from nearby businesses played a crucial role in identifying Bernal. This demonstrates how community vigilance can make Laredo safer:

• Businesses: Install and maintain security cameras
• Neighbors: Report suspicious activity immediately
• Residents: Be aware of your surroundings and document suspicious vehicles

Legal Lessons: What Laredo Can Learn from This Case

At Attorney911, we’ve handled numerous cases involving stolen vehicles and violent crimes. This incident in Laredo offers several important legal lessons:

Lesson 1: Stolen Vehicles Are Often Used in Violent Crimes

This case demonstrates what we see all too often: stolen vehicles don’t just disappear – they’re used in additional crimes. The progression is predictable:

1. Theft: The initial taking of the vehicle
2. Transportation: Using the stolen vehicle to commit other crimes
3. Weaponization: As seen in this case, using the vehicle itself as a weapon

Lesson 2: Criminal Histories Matter

Bernal’s extensive criminal history – including outstanding warrants for burglary, theft, and drug possession – raises serious questions about how he remained at large. This case highlights:

• The importance of background checks: Employers and landlords need to be vigilant
• The need for warrant enforcement: Outstanding warrants must be actively pursued
• The dangers of recidivism: Repeat offenders often escalate to more serious crimes

Lesson 3: Surveillance Footage Is Crucial Evidence

The Laredo Police Department credited surveillance footage with identifying Bernal. This reinforces what we tell all our clients:

• Document everything: Photos and videos can make or break a case
• Preserve evidence: Don’t delete or overwrite surveillance footage
• Work with law enforcement: Provide footage promptly when requested

Lesson 4: Vehicle Theft Has Serious Legal Consequences

The charges against Bernal demonstrate that vehicle theft is far from a “victimless crime”:

• Unauthorized use of a vehicle: A state jail felony in Texas
• Aggravated assault with a deadly weapon: A second-degree felony
• Evading arrest: Additional criminal charges
• Property damage: Civil liability for the victim

Lesson 5: Victims Have Legal Options

While the criminal case proceeds, the victim in this case may have civil remedies. This is true for all victims of violent crimes involving vehicles:

• Assault and battery claims: For the physical and emotional harm suffered
• Conversion claims: For the wrongful taking of the vehicle
• Negligent security claims: If businesses failed to prevent the theft or assault
• Crime victims’ compensation: Texas provides financial assistance to victims

The Attorney911 Perspective: How We Would Handle This Case

At Attorney911, we’ve handled numerous cases involving stolen vehicles and violent crimes. If we were representing the victim in this Laredo incident, here’s how we would approach the case:

Immediate Actions

1. Preserve all evidence:
   – Obtain surveillance footage from nearby businesses
   – Document the victim’s injuries with photographs
   – Preserve any physical evidence from the scene

2. Investigate the criminal history:
   – Obtain Bernal’s complete criminal record
   – Research his outstanding warrants
   – Investigate any prior incidents involving stolen vehicles

3. Identify all potential defendants:
   – Ulysses Bernal (the assailant)
   – Any accomplices involved in the theft or assault
   – The owner of the stolen Dodge Ram (if negligence contributed to the theft)
   – Businesses that may have failed to prevent the theft or assault

Legal Strategy

1. Criminal case support:
   – Work with prosecutors to ensure all charges are pursued
   – Advocate for maximum restitution for the victim
   – Monitor the criminal proceedings for civil opportunities

2. Civil lawsuit:
   – File assault and battery claims against Bernal
   – Pursue conversion claims for the stolen vehicle
   – Investigate negligent security claims against businesses
   – Seek punitive damages for the intentional nature of the assault

3. Insurance claims:
   – Pursue claims through the victim’s uninsured motorist coverage
   – Investigate any applicable business insurance policies
   – File claims with the Texas Crime Victims’ Compensation Fund

Long-Term Advocacy

1. Policy changes:
   – Advocate for better vehicle theft prevention programs
   – Push for improved warrant enforcement
   – Support community surveillance initiatives

2. Public education:
   – Warn about the dangers of confronting vehicle thieves
   – Educate on vehicle security best practices
   – Raise awareness about crime victims’ rights

3. Community partnerships:
   – Work with local businesses on security improvements
   – Partner with law enforcement on crime prevention
   – Support victim advocacy organizations

The Bigger Legal Picture: Vehicle Theft and Violent Crime in Texas

This incident in Laredo is part of a larger pattern of vehicle theft leading to violent crime across Texas. At Attorney911, we’ve seen this progression time and time again:

The Vehicle Theft Epidemic

Texas consistently ranks among the top states for vehicle theft:

• 100,000+ vehicles stolen annually in Texas
• Only about 50% are recovered
• Stolen vehicles are often used in additional crimes

The most commonly stolen vehicles in Texas include:
1. Ford F-Series pickup trucks
2. Chevrolet Silverado pickup trucks
3. Dodge Ram pickup trucks (like the one in this case)
4. Honda Civics and Accords
5. Toyota Camrys

The Escalation to Violence

Stolen vehicles frequently become instruments of violent crime:

1. Robberies and burglaries: Providing transportation for criminals
2. Drug trafficking: Moving illegal substances across state lines
3. Gang activities: Used in drive-by shootings and other violent crimes
4. Assaults: As seen in this case, using the vehicle itself as a weapon

Legal Precedents and Trends

Several legal trends are relevant to this case:

1. Felony Murder Doctrine: In some states, if someone is killed during the commission of a felony (like vehicle theft), all participants can be charged with murder. While Texas doesn’t have a pure felony murder rule, similar principles apply through the “law of parties.”

2. Negligent Entrustment: Vehicle owners can be held liable if they negligently allow dangerous individuals to access their vehicles. This could potentially apply if the owner of the stolen Dodge Ram failed to secure it properly.

3. Crime Victims’ Rights: Texas has strong laws protecting crime victims’ rights, including the right to restitution and the right to be informed about court proceedings.

4. Nuclear Verdicts: Juries are increasingly willing to award large verdicts in cases involving violent crimes. In 2024, a Texas jury awarded $37.5 million in a trucking accident case – demonstrating that juries will hold defendants accountable for egregious conduct.

What Laredo Residents Can Do to Protect Themselves

This incident should serve as a wake-up call for all Laredo residents. Here are concrete steps you can take to protect yourself and your community:

Vehicle Security

1. Always lock your vehicle – Even when parked at home
2. Never leave keys in the ignition – This is an open invitation to thieves
3. Use steering wheel locks – Visible deterrents can prevent theft
4. Install GPS tracking devices – Helps recover stolen vehicles quickly
5. Park in well-lit areas – Thieves prefer dark, secluded locations
6. Consider dash cams – Provides evidence if your vehicle is stolen or involved in a crime

Personal Safety

1. Don’t confront thieves – Your safety is more important than property
2. Be aware of your surroundings – Especially in parking lots and gas stations
3. Trust your instincts – If something feels wrong, leave the area
4. Have an emergency plan – Know how to call for help quickly

Community Action

1. Report suspicious activity – Call Laredo Police at (956) 795-2800 for non-emergencies
2. Install security cameras – Businesses and homeowners should maintain surveillance
3. Join neighborhood watch programs – Community vigilance deters crime
4. Support local law enforcement – Attend community meetings and provide information

Legal Preparedness

1. Know your rights – If you’re a victim, you have legal options
2. Document everything – Take photos, save receipts, keep records
3. Consult an attorney – Legal advice can help protect your rights
4. Consider uninsured motorist coverage – Protects you if you’re injured by a criminal

The Role of Technology in Preventing Vehicle Crime

This case demonstrates how technology can both facilitate and prevent vehicle-related crimes:

Technology That Helped Solve This Case

1. Surveillance Cameras: Footage from nearby businesses identified Bernal
2. License Plate Readers: May have helped track the stolen Dodge Ram
3. GPS Tracking: If the vehicle had been equipped, it could have been recovered faster
4. Digital Records: Police databases helped connect Bernal to outstanding warrants

Technology That Could Prevent Future Crimes

1. Smart Key Systems: Prevent hot-wiring and unauthorized use
2. Immobilizers: Prevent vehicles from starting without the proper key
3. GPS Tracking: Helps recover stolen vehicles quickly
4. Dash Cams: Provide evidence of thefts and assaults
5. Automatic License Plate Readers: Help track stolen vehicles
6. Smartphone Alerts: Notify owners of unauthorized movement

The Legal Implications of Vehicle Technology

As vehicles become more technologically advanced, new legal issues emerge:

1. Privacy Concerns: Who owns the data collected by your vehicle?
2. Cybersecurity Risks: Can hackers gain control of your vehicle?
3. Product Liability: Who’s responsible if vehicle technology fails?
4. Insurance Issues: How does vehicle technology affect insurance claims?

At Attorney911, we stay at the forefront of these technological and legal developments to better serve our clients.

The Psychological Impact: More Than Just Physical Injuries

While the physical injuries in this case are serious, the psychological impact on the victim and community cannot be overlooked. At Attorney911, we’ve seen how traumatic events like this affect victims long after the physical wounds heal.

Potential Psychological Effects

1. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Flashbacks, nightmares, and severe anxiety
2. Depression: Feelings of hopelessness and loss of interest in daily activities
3. Anxiety Disorders: Generalized anxiety, panic attacks, or specific phobias
4. Sleep Disturbances: Insomnia or nightmares related to the trauma
5. Trust Issues: Difficulty trusting others or feeling safe in public spaces

Legal Recognition of Psychological Harm

Texas law recognizes the seriousness of psychological injuries:

1. Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress: When someone’s extreme and outrageous conduct causes severe emotional distress
2. Negligent Infliction of Emotional Distress: When someone’s negligence causes foreseeable emotional harm
3. Pain and Suffering Damages: Compensation for both physical and emotional harm in personal injury cases

In cases like this, victims may be entitled to compensation for:
– Past and future mental health treatment
– Lost wages due to psychological impairment
– Pain and suffering
– Loss of enjoyment of life

Supporting Victims Through Recovery

At Attorney911, we connect victims with resources to support their recovery:

1. Mental Health Professionals: Therapists specializing in trauma
2. Support Groups: For victims of violent crime
3. Victim Advocacy Organizations: Providing legal and emotional support
4. Crime Victims’ Compensation Fund: Financial assistance for crime-related expenses

The Economic Impact: Costs Beyond the Obvious

This incident will have economic consequences that extend far beyond the immediate damage:

Direct Costs

1. Medical Expenses: Emergency care, hospitalization, rehabilitation
2. Property Damage: Repair or replacement of the stolen vehicle
3. Lost Wages: Time missed from work due to injuries
4. Legal Fees: Both criminal and civil proceedings

Indirect Costs

1. Increased Insurance Premiums: For all Laredo residents
2. Lost Productivity: When victims can’t return to work
3. Community Resources: Law enforcement, court system, victim services
4. Decreased Property Values: In areas with high crime rates
5. Business Impact: Lost revenue for businesses affected by crime

The Cost of Inaction

When crimes like this go unaddressed, the costs multiply:

1. Repeat Offenders: Like Bernal, who escalate to more serious crimes
2. Community Fear: Residents afraid to go about their daily lives
3. Economic Decline: Businesses and residents leaving high-crime areas
4. Increased Taxes: To fund additional law enforcement and victim services

The Path Forward: How Laredo Can Address This Problem

This incident should serve as a catalyst for change in Laredo. Here are concrete steps our community can take:

Law Enforcement Strategies

1. Improve Warrant Enforcement: Actively pursue outstanding warrants
2. Enhance Vehicle Theft Prevention: Target high-theft areas and vehicles
3. Expand Community Policing: Build trust and gather intelligence
4. Invest in Technology: License plate readers, surveillance cameras, GPS tracking
5. Improve Interagency Coordination: Share information between local, state, and federal agencies

Community Initiatives

1. Neighborhood Watch Programs: Community vigilance deters crime
2. Vehicle Security Education: Teach residents how to protect their vehicles
3. Business Security Partnerships: Work with businesses to improve surveillance
4. Youth Outreach Programs: Prevent young people from entering a life of crime
5. Victim Support Services: Provide resources for crime victims

Policy Changes

1. Stricter Penalties for Vehicle Theft: Especially when used in violent crimes
2. Improved Bail Reform: Ensure dangerous individuals aren’t released pending trial
3. Vehicle Security Standards: Mandate immobilizers and tracking devices
4. Crime Victims’ Rights: Strengthen protections and compensation
5. Community Investment: Fund programs that address root causes of crime

Legal Reforms

1. Civil Remedies for Victims: Make it easier for victims to sue criminals
2. Third-Party Liability: Hold businesses accountable for negligent security
3. Restitution Enforcement: Ensure criminals actually pay restitution
4. Crime Victims’ Compensation: Expand funding and eligibility
5. Data Sharing: Improve information sharing between criminal and civil courts

Why This Case Matters for All of Laredo

This incident isn’t just about one stolen truck or one violent assault. It’s about the safety of our entire community. Here’s why this case should matter to every Laredo resident:

It Could Happen to Anyone

The victim in this case was simply trying to recover his girlfriend’s stolen property. But the situation escalated quickly into a violent assault. This demonstrates that:

• Vehicle theft affects everyone – Not just the direct victims
• Violent crime can happen anywhere – Even in familiar locations like gas stations
• Criminals are unpredictable – What starts as a property crime can escalate to violence

It Reveals Systemic Weaknesses

Bernal’s extensive criminal history – including outstanding warrants for burglary, theft, and drug possession – raises serious questions:

• Why was he still on the streets? With multiple outstanding warrants, why wasn’t he in custody?
• How did he obtain the vehicle? Was the Dodge Ram properly secured?
• What could have prevented this? Could better law enforcement or community vigilance have stopped this assault?

It Demonstrates the Power of Evidence

The Laredo Police Department credited surveillance footage with identifying Bernal. This highlights:

• The importance of security cameras – For businesses and homeowners
• The value of community vigilance – Reporting suspicious activity
• The power of technology – In solving crimes and protecting communities

It Shows the Legal Consequences of Crime

The charges against Bernal demonstrate that vehicle-related crimes have serious legal consequences:

• Aggravated assault with a deadly weapon – A second-degree felony
• Unauthorized use of a vehicle – A state jail felony
• Evading arrest – Additional criminal charges
• Property damage – Civil liability for the victim

The Attorney911 Difference: How We Fight for Victims

At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for victims of violent crimes and vehicle-related incidents for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has built a reputation for aggressive representation and multi-million dollar results. Here’s what sets us apart:

Our Experience

• 25+ years handling complex cases – Since 1998
• Federal court admission – U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
• Former insurance defense attorney on staff – Lupe Peña knows how the other side thinks
• Multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements – For victims of violent crimes

Our Approach

1. Immediate Action: We move quickly to preserve evidence before it disappears
2. Comprehensive Investigation: We leave no stone unturned in building your case
3. Aggressive Representation: We fight for maximum compensation at every stage
4. Client-Centered Service: We treat you like family, not just another case number

Our Results

While we can’t guarantee specific outcomes, our track record speaks for itself:

• $5+ Million – Logging brain injury settlement
• $3.8+ Million – Car accident amputation settlement
• $2.5+ Million – Truck crash recovery
• $2+ Million – Maritime back injury settlement
• Millions recovered for families in wrongful death cases

Our Promise to Laredo

If you or a loved one has been affected by a violent crime or vehicle-related incident in Laredo, we promise:

1. A free, no-obligation consultation – We’ll evaluate your case and explain your options
2. No fee unless we win – You pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you
3. Aggressive representation – We’ll fight for every dollar you deserve
4. Compassionate service – We understand what you’re going through and will support you every step of the way

What to Do If You’re a Victim of Vehicle-Related Crime

If you or someone you know has been affected by a crime like this, here’s what to do:

Immediate Steps

1. Call 911 – Report the crime immediately
2. Seek medical attention – Even if injuries seem minor
3. Document everything – Take photos, save receipts, keep records
4. Preserve evidence – Don’t delete surveillance footage or throw away damaged property
5. Talk to witnesses – Get contact information from anyone who saw what happened

Legal Steps

1. Consult an attorney – Before talking to insurance companies or signing anything
2. Understand your rights – As a crime victim in Texas
3. Explore all options – Criminal restitution, civil lawsuits, victim compensation
4. Act quickly – Evidence disappears and deadlines apply

Long-Term Support

1. Seek counseling – The psychological impact can be severe
2. Join support groups – For victims of violent crime
3. Stay informed – About the criminal case and your legal options
4. Advocate for change – Share your story to help prevent future crimes

The Bottom Line: This Case Demands Action

The assault in Laredo involving the stolen Dodge Ram isn’t just another crime statistic. It’s a symptom of larger problems that affect our entire community:

1. Vehicle theft is escalating to violent crime – Stolen vehicles are being weaponized
2. Repeat offenders are slipping through the cracks – Outstanding warrants must be enforced
3. Community vigilance is more important than ever – Surveillance and reporting make a difference
4. Victims need support and legal options – The criminal justice system alone isn’t enough

At Attorney911, we’re committed to fighting for victims of violent crimes in Laredo and across Texas. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been at the forefront of this battle for over 25 years. We’ve seen what happens when criminals aren’t held accountable – and we know how to make them pay.

This case should serve as a wake-up call for our community. We can’t change what happened, but we can work together to prevent future tragedies. That means:

• Better law enforcement – Enforcing warrants and preventing vehicle theft
• Community vigilance – Reporting suspicious activity and maintaining surveillance
• Victim support – Providing resources and legal options for those affected
• Policy changes – Strengthening laws and improving victim compensation

If you or someone you know has been affected by a violent crime or vehicle-related incident in Laredo, don’t wait. The legal process moves quickly, and evidence disappears fast. Call Attorney911 today at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. Our team, led by Ralph Manginello, is standing by 24/7 to help.

Remember: the criminal justice system will punish the offender, but it’s the civil justice system that can truly compensate the victim. At Attorney911, we fight for both.

Closing: Your Fight Starts Here

The assault in Laredo involving the stolen Dodge Ram is more than just a news story – it’s a call to action. For the victim, for the community, and for all of us who believe in justice.

At Attorney911, we’ve dedicated our careers to fighting for victims like you. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been on the front lines of this battle for over 25 years. We’ve seen the devastation that violent crimes cause – and we know how to make the responsible parties pay.

This case demonstrates exactly why you need an experienced legal team on your side:

• The criminal case will determine punishment for Bernal
• The civil case can provide compensation for the victim
• The community impact demands policy changes and prevention efforts

If you or someone you know has been affected by a violent crime or vehicle-related incident in Laredo, don’t wait. Evidence disappears quickly, and legal deadlines apply. Here’s what you need to do right now:

1. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 – We answer 24/7
2. Schedule a free consultation – We’ll evaluate your case and explain your options
3. Don’t talk to insurance companies – Let us handle all communications
4. Preserve all evidence – Photos, videos, medical records, witness information

Remember: at Attorney911, we work on contingency. That means you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all the costs of investigation and litigation, so there’s no financial risk to you.

Our team, led by Ralph Manginello, includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how the other side thinks. We’ve recovered millions for victims of violent crimes, and we’re ready to fight for you.

This isn’t just about compensation – it’s about justice. It’s about holding criminals accountable. It’s about making our community safer. And it starts with one call.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911. Your fight for justice starts here.

“When disaster strikes, you need a Legal Emergency Lawyer™ who fights like your future depends on it—because it does.”
— Ralph Manginello, Managing Partner, Attorney911

Learn more about how we fight for trucking accident victims in our video guide: The Victim’s Guide to 18-Wheeler Accident Injuries

For more information on your rights after an accident, watch: What to Do After a Car Accident?

Understand how insurance companies evaluate claims in: What Should You Not Say to an Insurance Adjuster?