Cops Ram Car Into Naked Armed Suspect

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Portland police officers used their patrol cruiser to ram an armed, naked meth-addicted suspect, sparking debate over unconventional but effective tactics that saved lives without killing the criminal.

Story Snapshot

Officers struck Robert Hatley with patrol car after he fired shots while naked and high on methamphetamine
Vehicle impact successfully disarmed the suspect, with gun found lodged in cruiser’s front bumper guard
Two veteran officers placed on administrative leave during investigation of “deadly force event”
Body camera footage released showing dramatic encounter in busy Portland neighborhood

Armed Suspect Creates Public Safety Crisis

Robert Hatley, 43, terrorized Portland’s Lloyd District on November 5 while naked, armed with a handgun, and under the influence of methamphetamine. Multiple 911 calls reported the dangerous individual running through populated commercial areas near businesses including a Denny’s restaurant. Witnesses told police Hatley had pointed the gun at his own head and pulled the trigger, though the weapon failed to fire. This erratic behavior created an immediate threat to public safety in a busy neighborhood.

Wild bodycam footage shows Portland cops hit armed naked man who was high on meth with squad car https://t.co/3b6xBpf5fk pic.twitter.com/K0ROkmak4i

— New York Post (@nypost) November 28, 2025

Officers Face Split-Second Decision Under Fire

When Officers Bradley Clarke and Roger Wallace, both nearly 20-year veterans, located Hatley near Northeast Grand Avenue and Broadway, the situation escalated rapidly. The suspect fired a shot directly in front of police before continuing to flee through the crowded area. Faced with an active shooter who had already demonstrated willingness to use his weapon, officers made the tactical decision to use their patrol cruiser to stop the threat. The vehicle strike successfully caused Hatley to drop his firearm.

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Unconventional Tactic Achieves Mission Without Fatality

The cruiser impact knocked Hatley down but did not kill him, allowing officers to recover the handgun from their vehicle’s front bumper guard. Despite being struck, the suspect got up and continued running into an apartment building where officers deployed a TASER to complete the arrest. This unconventional use of force prevented potential casualties among civilians and officers while neutralizing an armed threat. The suspect was hospitalized for treatment before being booked on charges of unlawful use of a weapon and felon in possession of a firearm.

Investigation Reveals Transparency Amid Scrutiny

Portland Police released body camera footage on November 19-20, demonstrating accountability through transparency, though the bureau edited portions before public release. Both officers involved were placed on administrative leave pending the investigation, which the department classifies as a “deadly force event.” Hatley has pleaded not guilty to all charges. The incident highlights the dangerous reality officers face when confronting armed criminals experiencing drug-induced psychosis who pose immediate threats to innocent civilians in populated areas.