Los Angeles, Ca
Pasadena man run over by catalytic converter thieves faces long recovery
A Pasadena man who was critically injured after being run over while confronting suspected catalytic converter thieves is continuing a difficult recovery months later as family, friends and neighbors rally to support him.
Mike “Mikey” Moreno, 38, suffered a traumatic brain injury and multiple broken bones when he was struck during the Feb. 12 incident outside his home on Garfias Drive in Pasadena, according to loved ones.
Moreno’s family says he remains wheelchair-bound and is facing extensive rehabilitation, while medical expenses continue to mount.
A community fundraiser dubbed “Fresh Cuts for a Better Fight — Rally for Mikey” was scheduled for Sunday at Alden Hair Design in support of his recovery.
According to a flyer shared by organizers, the event offered $20 boys haircuts, with 100% of proceeds going directly toward Moreno’s care and rehabilitation costs.
“Recently, Mikey suffered a traumatic brain injury and is facing a long road of recovery,” organizers wrote. “The physical, emotional, and financial challenges can continue for months or even years.”
The fundraiser comes more than four months after Moreno was left fighting for his life during what neighbors described as a violent catalytic converter theft.
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Pasadena resident Mike Moreno, 38, is pictured in the hospital recovering from brain surgery and broken bones. -
Surveillance video from Mike Moreno’s house shows him confronting the catalytic converter thieves before he was violently run over on Feb. 12, 2026 in Pasadena, Calif. (Mike Moreno) -
Video shows a Prius getting jacked up before its catalytic converter was stolen in Pasadena, Calif. on Feb. 12, 2026.
Security camera footage captured suspects targeting vehicles in the neighborhood before Moreno confronted them. Investigators believe he was run over and left in the street, where he remained until a neighbor discovered him and called for help.
At the time, Moreno underwent brain surgery and was hospitalized with severe injuries. Family members previously told KTLA he could face a lengthy rehabilitation process and might need to relearn how to walk.
Neighbors have described Moreno as a beloved member of the community.
“Mikey is the LAST person this should ever happen to, as he would give you the shirt off his back,” a GoFundMe created to assist with his recovery states.
The suspect or suspects responsible for the attack remain at large.
Authorities have not released additional details about the investigation, but the case remains under active investigation.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact law enforcement.