Man Pleads Not Guilty to Charges Related to High Speed Chase on Route 94

A man accused of leading deputies on a pursuit through southeastern San Diego and crashing the stolen car he was driving while high on drugs pleaded not guilty today to multiple charges, including hit-and-run and DUI causing injury.

Adrian Atondo, 49, of El Cajon, was spotted just before 9 p.m. Saturday, when a deputy sheriff's computerized camera indicated he was driving a stolen Honda Civic on state Route 94, according to San Diego County sheriff's Sgt. Dave Martinez.

The deputy requested help from California Highway Patrol and San Diego police officers and followed the driver off the eastbound 94 freeway and onto Southeastern San Diego's surface streets, Martinez said.

Officers attempted to stop the car, but Atondo allegedly sped off. Martinez said the stolen car crashed into another vehicle in the 6200 block of eastbound Imperial Avenue, then crossed into oncoming traffic and collided with two more vehicles. Atondo then stopped and allegedly tried to run away from the wrecked Honda.

Martinez said Atondo was arrested a short time later and was later allegedly found to be under the influence of a controlled substance and in possession of methamphetamine. He also had an outstanding felony warrant.
Atondo was taken to a hospital after complaining of back pain and then booked into jail.

The three vehicles Atondo allegedly crashed into sustained moderate damage, and one of the drivers was taken to a hospital after complaining of arm pain, Martinez said.

A readiness conference is scheduled March 21 and a preliminary hearing for March 25.

—City News Service