San Marcos CA– Deputy Brian Baydo was on patrol when he observed a silver Honda Civic traveling at a high rate of speed run a red traffic light at the intersection of Rancheros Drive and San Marcos Blvd. Deputy Baydo caught up to the vehicle and ran the license plate, which came back as a stolen vehicle. When he attempted to stop the car, the driver failed to yield and a short pursuit ensued.
Speeds reached approximately 70 MPH, until the driver of the stolen vehicle turned onto Maple Avenue, a dead-end road. In an effort to escape, the suspect intentionally drove the stolen vehicle into the sheriff’s patrol car, then fled on foot. Damage to the patrol car was minor and the deputy was not injured.
Deputies pursued the suspect on foot while other responding deputies checked and secured the area. The suspect ran through numerous back yards before eluding deputies.
An unloaded 9mm handgun was located a short distance from the vehicle and is believed to have been discarded by the suspect. While processing the vehicle for evidence, deputies located four expended 9mm shell casings inside the car.
Area agencies were contacted, but at this time, the car has not been linked to any other known crimes. Detective Benny Cruz from the San Marcos Station is handling the follow up investigation. Persons with any information on this case are encouraged to contact Detective Cruz at (760) 510-5230.