Theft suspect prompts chase and HAZMAT response.
Post Date: 06/17/2022 2:47 AM
An investigation is underway into a pursuit that ended in a crash in the North County.
Deputies with the Vista Sheriff’s Station responded to a burglary alarm in the 1900 block of Willow Ridge Drive just before 4:30 a.m. Deputies found a man passed out inside a truck with illegal drugs in the center console and pool equipment in the truck bed. They were able to wake him up, but the driver quickly drove away.
Deputies followed the truck for 20 seconds when the driver crashed into a light pole at the intersection of Lake Boulevard and Cannon Road in Oceanside. Due to the impact, pool chemicals spilled throughout the truck and immediate area. Deputies tried to rescue the man, but were unable to reach him due to overwhelming fumes from the chemicals.
Firefighters with the Vista Fire Department were able to remove the man from the truck, but he did not survive. Our deepest condolences go out to his family.
There were no other passengers in the truck.
The County and City of San Diego’s Hazardous Materials Division (HAZMAT) responded to the scene to clean the spill. Nearby residents were advised to stay indoors and roads were closed during the cleanup.
A deputy was treated at a hospital and released after being exposed to the chemicals.
The Oceanside Police Department is investigating the traffic collision since it happened within their jurisdiction. To read their news release, click here. The Sheriff’s Traffic Reconstruction Team is conducting a parallel investigation in accordance with department policies and procedures.
The Medical Examiner’s Office will determine the cause and manner of death, as well as identification of the body once the family has been notified.
Media Contact: Lieutenant Jeffrey Ford
Jeffery.Ford@sdsheriff.org
Vista Sheriff’s Station (760) 940-4900
