On Wednesday, August 27, 2025, at about 2:05 p.m. deputies arrested Francisco Gerardo Sustaita (01/24/81) after he deliberately rammed his Toyota Tundra into a vehicle in the Starbucks drive-through in the 1700 block of W Vista Way. He then fled the scene and intentionally crashed into a second vehicle at the intersection of W. Vista Way and N. Emerald Drive.
Sustaita once again fled and, as deputies attempted to make contact with him, he led them on a chase, intentionally crashing into several more vehicles. His spree only came to an end when his Tundra was disabled near Valencia Drive. Sustaita then abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot.
Deputies gave chase, apprehending Sustaita on the center median just east of Valencia Drive. Deputies were forced to use a WRAP restraint device to safely take him into custody. In all, Sustaita struck five (5) different vehicles during the incident.
The Vista Fire Department responded to the multiple scenes to assist the numerous crash victims, all of whom sustained minor injuries. Fire personnel also evaluated Sustaita and transported him to a local hospital for treatment.
Sustaita was ultimately arrested on multiple felony charges of assault with a deadly weapon and booked into the Vista Detention Facility. It is not yet known if drugs or alcohol were a factor in the incident. The investigation is ongoing by the Vista Traffic Unit.
Media Contact: Sergeant Eric Cottrell
Eric.Cottrell@sdsheriff.org
Vista Sheriff’s Station (760) 940-4551
