West Texas Man Indicted After Allegedly Throwing Hot Grease on Police Officer

SAN ANGELO, TX — A San Angelo man is facing charges after allegedly throwing hot grease on a police officer, leading to a recent indictment by a Tom Green County grand jury.

According to court documents, it happened on July 20, 2024, when a San Angelo police officer responded to a civil disturbance call on East 31st Street. Upon arrival, the officer assessed that a possible felony offense had taken place and attempted to contact the defendant, identified as Felipe Escamilla, 54.

After knocking and announcing his presence for several minutes, the officer, with assistance from the San Angelo Fire Department, attempted to check on Escamilla’s welfare. An SAFD employee unlocked the apartment door using a key, but as the door opened, Escamilla reportedly appeared with a frying pan in hand.

As the officer backed away, Escamilla allegedly flung hot grease at him, causing burns to the officer’s head, neck, and arms. Escamilla was immediately taken into custody and has been held in the Tom Green County Jail since the incident.

Escamilla faces an assault charge for causing bodily harm to a peace officer. If convicted, he could face significant prison time.