Hawkeye Reporter

The Iowa City Police Department announced the arrest of Roman Aguilar Ventura, 29, on multiple felony charges, including third-offense drunken driving and willful injury. This follows an incident where he allegedly drove into a group of five people. The announcement was made in a public statement.

According to The Gazette, the incident took place on August 15, 2025, at approximately 10:42 p.m. near the intersection of Southgate Avenue and Waterfront Drive in Iowa City. Police allege that Aguilar Ventura intentionally drove into five individuals after a dispute and then fled the scene. Officers later found his vehicle nearby and located him at his residence, where he was arrested without further incident.

Court filings indicate that Aguilar Ventura faces several serious charges, including third-offense drunken driving, five counts of willful injury resulting in injury, five counts of assault with a dangerous weapon, leaving the scene of an accident with injury, driving while barred, and driving while suspended. As reported by Iowa’s News Now, a third DUI offense under Iowa law carries significantly higher penalties, including possible prison time and lengthy license revocation. Jail records list his bail at $35,000 cash only; he remains in custody at the Johnson County Jail.

Police confirmed that the five victims suffered non-life-threatening injuries such as a leg cut, swelling to the back of the neck, and general pain complaints. According to KCRG News, investigators emphasized that while the injuries were minor, using a car as a weapon substantially escalated the seriousness of the case. Jail records also show Aguilar Ventura is subject to an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detainer to ensure he remains in custody for review by federal immigration officials after local proceedings conclude.

The Iowa City Police Department provides law enforcement services to residents of Iowa City through patrol operations, criminal investigations, and traffic enforcement. The department frequently collaborates with the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office and other state agencies to address violent crimes and DUI enforcement. According to its official website, its mission is "to protect and serve the community through integrity, professionalism, and a commitment to public safety."