In a Montgomery County courtroom on August 27, 2025, a 19-year-old driver’s reckless actions came to a head as he was sentenced to 22 years in prison for crashing into a police officer, costing the officer both his legs. Raphael Mayorga’s high-speed antics on Interstate 270 in October 2023 left Sgt. Patrick Kepp gravely injured, but the officer’s remarkable recovery and return to duty have inspired many. The sentencing, which followed a guilty verdict on 13 charges, marks a moment of closure for Kepp and his community, though it underscores the profound and lasting impact of that fateful day. Here’s the story of a tragedy, a hero’s resilience, and a community’s pursuit of justice.
A Dangerous Pursuit on I-270
The incident that changed Sgt. Patrick Kepp’s life unfolded in the early hours of October 18, 2023, on Interstate 270. Raphael Mayorga, then 19, was behind the wheel of his distinctive green Dodge Challenger, tearing through Montgomery County at speeds exceeding 160 mph. “He often drove more than 100 mph, despite officers begging him to stop,” police said, noting Mayorga’s history of baiting law enforcement into high-speed chases. On that night, Kepp, a seasoned officer with the Montgomery County Police Department, was part of a team trying to halt Mayorga’s dangerous joyride.
Kepp was deploying stop sticks—devices designed to puncture tires and slow a fleeing vehicle—when Mayorga swerved directly at him, striking him with devastating force. “Kepp was putting stop sticks on the road when he said Mayorga drove right at him and slammed into him,” court records state. The impact was catastrophic, leading to the amputation of both of Kepp’s legs. Dashboard camera footage captured the roar of the Challenger’s engine as Mayorga veered into the officer, a chilling moment that underscored the recklessness of his actions.
A Hero’s Road to Recovery
Sgt. Patrick Kepp’s journey since that night has been nothing short of extraordinary. After nearly two months in a trauma center and extensive rehabilitation at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Kepp defied the odds by returning to work with the Montgomery County Police Department. “It’s just great to be able to go back and work the road and run calls and drive up in my cruiser,” Kepp said, reflecting on his return to the job he loves. Now equipped with prosthetics, he has also resumed his passion for refereeing Division I college football, though he currently works sideline replays with hopes of returning to the field.
Kepp’s resilience has become a beacon of inspiration, earning him praise from colleagues and the community. Montgomery County Police Chief Marc Yamada called him “the department’s hero” during the sentencing hearing, a sentiment echoed by those who have followed his recovery. Yet, Kepp remains candid about the lasting impact of his injuries. “His life will be normal. He will come out and leave jail, prison, and go back to a normal life. My life is not normal, really, ever again,” he said, contrasting his future with Mayorga’s.
A Guilty Verdict, but No Attempted Murder
In April 2025, a jury found Mayorga guilty of 13 charges, including second-degree assault and leaving the scene of a crash. However, they acquitted him of the most serious charge—attempted murder—leaving police and prosecutors disappointed. “There’s some days when it’s great to be state’s attorney of Montgomery County. This is not one of those days,” said State’s Attorney John McCarthy, who had argued Mayorga intentionally targeted Kepp. Despite the acquittal on attempted murder, the 13 convictions carried significant weight, with the possibility of over 28 years in prison.
During the trial, evidence painted a vivid picture of Mayorga’s recklessness. He had won $2,000 in a street race just before the incident and was clocked driving at 162 mph. “Mayorga, of Frederick, had just won $2,000 in a street race and was driving his distinctive, bright green Dodge Challenger,” court documents revealed. His history of evading police, coupled with warnings like “You’re going to kill somebody or kill yourself,” underscored a pattern of dangerous behavior that culminated in the crash.
A Sentence for Accountability
On August 27, 2025, Judge David Lease delivered a 22-year sentence, with about two years subtracted for time Mayorga had already served. The courtroom was packed with dozens of Montgomery County officers, including Kepp, as the sentence was announced. “We can now move to the next step, put the legal process behind us and get back to what normal life is now going forward,” Kepp said, expressing relief at the closure. Chief Yamada added, “It cannot undo the pain that was caused that morning, but it does bring a measure of closure, and most importantly, accountability to the defendant’s actions.”
Mayorga’s defense attorney argued for a lighter sentence, suggesting the trial itself was punishment enough, but the judge prioritized accountability. “His conduct, where he was getting engaged in these speed contests, was endangering not only himself, but the lives of other people,” McCarthy said, emphasizing the broader danger Mayorga posed. The 22-year term reflects the severity of the harm inflicted, particularly on Kepp, whose life was forever altered.
A Community Reflects and Moves Forward
The sentencing has sparked broader conversations in Montgomery County about road safety and the risks of reckless driving. Mayorga’s actions highlight the dangers of high-speed chases, which not only endanger law enforcement but also other drivers. County Executive Marc Elrich, speaking after the 2023 crash, called for stronger measures to address repeat reckless drivers, saying, “This is a sacrifice he shouldn’t have had to make.” Community members have rallied around Kepp, celebrating his strength while advocating for stricter enforcement to prevent similar tragedies.
As Frisco continues to heal, Kepp’s story serves as a powerful reminder of resilience and the human cost of reckless choices. The community is now focused on supporting his ongoing recovery while pushing for safer roads. For Kepp, the sentencing offers a chance to close one chapter and embrace the new normal he’s worked so hard to reclaim, a testament to his unyielding spirit in the face of unimaginable loss.
