Nixon officer back on duty

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NIXON — After three months’ administrative duty during the Texas Rangers’ investigation of a shooting incident in which he was involved, an NPD officer is back on patrol, officials say.

Officer Anthony Pradia, who was forced to open fire on a man who was trying to run over him and another officer, had been on limited duty pending the Texas Rangers’ investigation of the incident. Exactly 90 days after his placement, he was allowed back on active duty.

On Dec. 4, officers responded to reports of domestic disturbance at 705 West Holmes St., Chief Mario Hernandez reported. As they approached the scene, Kyle Rios, 20, of Nixon, attempted to flee the scene in a blue compact car. His grandfather attempted to stop him by blocking the path of the vehicle. Rios ran over his grandfather and fled the scene.

When confronted by Officers Pradia and Terreal Hatcher, Rios attempted to run over the officers as well, striking Hatcher. Pradia then fired shots at Rios and struck him in the arm, causing Rios to redirect the vehicle — narrowly missing the officers. Hatcher was not injured in the incident, and Rios was arrested and taken to Gonzales County Jail.

On March 4, the Grand Jury determined that Pradia’s shooting was justified.

Texas Ranger Joey Evans charged Rios with two counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon against a peace officer, one count of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and two counts of evading arrest with a vehicle. He remains in custody in Gonzales County Jail.

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