Driver arrested after chase and wrong-way accident in San Marcos

What began with a report of a stabbing in Vista ended with a police chase and a wrong-way driving accident on a San Marcos highway late Saturday night.

Sheriff’s deputies received a call around 11:30 p.m. Saturday about a fight and possible stabbing near East Orange Street and the Circle in Vista.

When officers arrived, they found no struggle or evidence of a stabbing, but saw a Honda Accord speeding away, sheriff’s Lt. George Crysler said. Officers turned on the hazard lights, but the driver did not stop, so they gave chase.

The driver ran several red lights during the chase. At Sycamore Avenue, he drove the wrong way onto State Route 78. Officers said they called off the pursuit for safety reasons and asked the California Highway Patrol to take over the pursuit.

About 10 minutes later, calls came in about a car crash on SR-78 near the Rancho Santa Fe Road exit in San Marcos. Witnesses said they saw the driver get out of his car and jump into a ditch near Smilax Road.

Officers confirmed it was the same car they had previously pursued, but it’s unclear if it was connected to the original report of the alleged fight or stabbing, Crysler said. No other cars were involved.

The driver was arrested, officials said. He was taken to Palomar Medical Center for treatment of a leg injury.

His name and age were not disclosed.

Originally published: July 28, 2024 at 18:09