San Diego, CA – Officer Austin Machitar, a Filipino-American member of the San Diego Police Department, was tragically killed during a high-speed vehicle pursuit in the Clairemont neighborhood. The incident occurred late Monday night, leaving another officer critically injured.
The pursuit began around 11:30 p.m. when officers attempted to stop a speeding vehicle. The driver refused to pull over, leading to a chase that ended disastrously at the intersection of Clairemont Mesa Boulevard and Doliva Drive. During the pursuit, the fleeing vehicle collided with the police car carrying Officer Machitar and his partner, Officer Zach Martinez.
The impact of the collision caused a fiery crash, engulfing both the officers’ vehicle and the suspect’s car in flames. Officer Machitar was pronounced dead at the scene, while Officer Martinez was rushed to Sharp Memorial Hospital, where he remains in critical condition. The driver of the fleeing vehicle also died in the crash.
Fortunately, two other drivers involved in the multi-vehicle collision were not injured. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) has taken over the investigation to determine the exact cause and circumstances of the accident.
In response to this tragedy, the San Diego Police Officers Association has set up a “Fund a Hero” donation page to support the families of Officer Machitar and Officer Martinez. The San Diego community has come together to mourn the loss of Officer Machitar and to support Officer Martinez and his family during this difficult time.
Chief Scott Wahl of the San Diego Police Department expressed deep sorrow over the loss of Officer Machitar and acknowledged the bravery and dedication of the officers involved. The city stands united in remembering and honoring the sacrifice made by these officers in the line of duty.