A San Diego police officer and the driver of another vehicle died in a crash after a chase. The incident occurred when the driver, who was speeding, collided with the officer’s car. The officer killed was identified as Austin Machitar, who had been with the department for around 5½ years. The other officer in the vehicle, Zach Martinez, was critically injured and is fighting for his life. He had been with the department for around 1½ years and is a Navy reservist and EMT from Texas. The identity of the dead driver has not been released. Due to the emotions involved, the California Highway Patrol will conduct an independent investigation into the crash. The incident occurred at around 11:30 p.m. Monday, involving multiple vehicles, with two other drivers sustaining no significant injuries. San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria called Machitar a hero, expressing condolences to his family and offering support. Gov. Gavin Newsom also expressed sadness over the tragic loss of Officer Machitar and offered thoughts and prayers to his loved ones, as well as to Officer Martinez, who was seriously injured. The San Diego community was urged to pray for Martinez’s recovery. The incident has been described as tragic, with the loss of life of an officer who dedicated himself to protecting others.
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