A multi-agency manhunt is currently underway across South Florida for 53-year-old Armando Lopez, who disappeared midway through his felony trial in Plantation Key on Friday, October 2, 2026. Lopez is wanted for skipping court proceedings related to a violent 2024 incident in the Upper Keys. The case stems from a domestic disturbance on Palm Drive in Key Largo, where Monroe County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to reports of abuse. Upon arrival, a patrol sergeant found Lopez assaulting an adult woman. When the officer intervened, Lopez punched the sergeant, attempted to disarm him, and, despite being tased, broke free. He then commandeered the sergeant’s marked patrol car and sped onto U.S. 1. During the flight, Lopez pulled over a woman driving a Kia SUV, forced her out of the vehicle, and fled north in the stolen SUV. The chase ended near Mile Marker 104 when Lopez rear-ended another car, causing the stolen vehicle to flip. Although no life-threatening injuries were reported from the crash, Lopez was arrested at the scene and booked into jail. He now faces numerous charges, including attempted murder, domestic violence by strangulation, false imprisonment, resisting arrest, grand theft auto, fleeing and eluding, impersonating a law enforcement officer, carjacking, burglary of emergency and private vehicles, leaving the scene of a crash, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and driving with a suspended license. Sheriff’s officials have warned that Lopez should be considered dangerous. Authorities are urging anyone with information regarding his current location to contact the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office immediately. Residents are advised to call 911 or reach the sheriff’s office directly at 305-289-2351 with any tips. Local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies have joined forces in the search for the suspect as he remains at large.