In 2024 former APD Chief Harold Medina crashed into the vehicle of Todd Perchert causing severe injuries
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. —
The city of Albuquerque paid $950,000 to settle a lawsuit after then-APD Police Chief Harold Medina ran a red light and collided with Todd Perchert’s 1966 Mustang while fleeing nearby gunfire back in 2024.
Perchert suffered extensive injuries, including a broken collarbone and shoulder blade, eight broken ribs reconstructed with titanium, and a collapsed lung, requiring a seven-hour surgery.
Perchert’s attorney said the injuries have had a lasting impact on his life.
“They affect his mobility and his everyday activity. You know, things that he would like to do. He’s no longer able to do,” said James Tawney.
Medina was later reprimanded for the crash. An internal investigation determined that he drove recklessly and failed to activate his body camera during the incident.
“Obviously, we feel that the actions that day were not what they should have been. There’s things that could have been done to prevent this crash,” said Tawney.
The city released a statement addressing the incident.
“The city acknowledges the seriousness of the crash and the shooting incident which led to the crash. Fortunately, no one lost their life as a result of either incident.”
KOAT reached out to former APD Police Chief Harold Medina about the settlement but did not receive a response.
