By SDCN Staff
Santee, CA–A driver was seriously injured early Wednesday after a pursuit in a stolen vehicle ended in a crash in El Cajon, authorities said.
Sheriff’s deputies responded just after 1 a.m. to a report of a stolen 2020 Jeep Wrangler taken from the 10300 block of Molino Road in Santee.
The vehicle was later spotted traveling eastbound on Woodside Avenue. When deputies attempted to conduct a traffic stop, the driver failed to yield, leading to a short pursuit.
The chase ended near the intersection of North Magnolia Avenue and Fletcher Parkway in El Cajon when the suspect lost control of the Jeep and crashed into several unoccupied parked vehicles, authorities said.
The driver, identified as Jesus Tizoc-Ocon, sustained serious injuries and was transported to a hospital, where he was reported to be in stable condition.
Investigators said that once he is released from the hospital, Tizoc-Ocon is expected to be booked on suspicion of vehicle theft, evading a peace officer, and possession of burglary tools.
No deputies or members of the public were injured in the incident.
Authorities say law enforcement agencies across Southern California have recently seen an increase in thefts of certain vehicles, including 2020 Jeep Wranglers, Gladiators, and Jeep Rubicons. Investigators believe many of the stolen vehicles are quickly driven across the border into Mexico, making recovery difficult.
Officials said thieves often use electronic devices to reprogram key fobs, allowing them to steal newer push-to-start vehicles within minutes.
The Sheriff’s Office encourages vehicle owners to use visible anti-theft devices, such as steering wheel locks, and to park in well-lit areas or locations visible to security cameras.
Anyone with additional information about the incident is asked to contact the Santee Sheriff’s Station at (619) 956-4000.
