Lawrence police officer Ariel Cruz dragged 2 blocks trying to stop fleeing car, critically injured

A Lawrence, Massachusetts police officer is in critical condition after he was dragged two blocks while trying to stop a car. The driver was later captured in New Hampshire.

Police said it started when officers pulled over a car at East Haverhill and Kendall streets in Lawrence around 7:40 p.m. Tuesday. According to investigators, the driver had a revoked license and the passenger was wanted on two active arrest warrants.

"While officers were taking the operator into custody, the passenger suddenly entered the driver's seat in an apparent attempt to flee the scene," police said in a statement.

"An officer attempted to prevent the suspect from escaping and became entangled with the vehicle as it accelerated away. The officer was dragged approximately two blocks before becoming separated from the vehicle."

Surveillance video showed the officer, later identified as Ariel Cruz, slide across the pavement before slamming into the tire of a parked car. Cruz was rushed to a hospital in Boston by a medical rescue helicopter. Police said he was in critical but stable condition Wednesday.

"We are encouraged to report that he is conscious and has been able to communicate with family members and friends," police said.

Cruz is 27 years old and a father of three.

Officers found the car that dragged Cruz Tuesday night, but there was no one in it. The passenger who hopped behind the wheel was identified by investigators as 34-year-old Hector Rivera. He was captured Wednesday morning in Plaistow, New Hampshire.

Police said Rivera has a long criminal history and was just released from MCI Shirley prison two months ago, on April 6. They said he has ties to Lawrence, Haverhill, and Plaistow.

He's now facing several charges including assault to murder, assault and battery on a police officer, resisting arrest and failure to stop for police.

"Anyone who chooses to endanger our residents or attack a police officer should know that we will use every available resource to identify them, locate them, and bring them into custody," Lawrence Police Chief Maurice Aguiler said in a statement. "This arrest sends a clear message: violent acts against our community or our officers will not go unanswered, and those responsible will be held fully accountable."

Officer Cruz joined Lawrence Police less than a year ago, in October 2025.

"Although relatively new to the Department, Officer Cruz has quickly distinguished himself through his dedication, professionalism, and commitment to serving the residents of Lawrence," police said.

Lawrence, Massachusetts is about 30 miles north of Boston.