Vista CA– On July 1, 2014 at about 01:13 am, Deputies responded to an accident at the intersection of West Vista Way and North Emerald Drive in the city of Vista. The driver, solo occupant of the vehicle was traveling east bound on West Vista Way at a high rate of speed and collided with a power pole knocking it over and causing the attached power lines to dangle dangerously low across the intersection.
After colliding with the power pole, the vehicle continued across the intersection and struck a pole on the north east corner and came to rest. CHP Officers were in the area at the time of the collision and observed the male driver exit the vehicle and attempt to flee the scene. The male was detained and ultimately transported to Palomar Hospital. While en route to the hospital, the driver became combative and spit on the deputy. The driver’s injuries are unknown at this time.
The collision caused a power outage to the surrounding area. SDG&E’s website indicated approximately 2560 customers were affected in North Vista, Oceanside, San Luis Rey, Ocean Hills and South Vista communities. At this time, it appears as though power has been restored to nearly all customers. Due to the downed power lines, SDG&E expects the entire intersection to be closed to all traffic for several hours this morning.
Preliminary information indicates alcohol was a factor in the collision. Vista Traffic Investigators are handling the investigation and charges are pending against the driver.