USBP Detains Fleeing Hit and Run Suspect

MURRIETA, Calif. —  U.S. Border Patrol agents detains a convicted felon on Sunday after he was involved in a hit and run accident.

At approximately 5:30 p.m., a Border Patrol agent arrived at the scene of a multi-vehicle car accident near the Interstate 15 immigration checkpoint.  A witness at the scene informed the agent that a man involved in the incident fled on foot before the agent arrived.  Witnesses were able to describe the man and said he was attempting to carjack someone before fleeing.

Responding agents quickly located a man, matching the description, walking along Interstate 15 north of the accident scene.  When agents stopped him for questioning, the man uncooperative and resisted agents attempt to detain him.  The agents were able to deescalate the situation and convinced the man to comply with their orders.  He was detained by agents as they investigated the incident.

Record checks revealed that the man was a 49-year-old U.S. citizen with an extensive criminal history.  Investigating further, agents discovered multiple felony and misdemeanor convictions.

California Highway Patrol (CHP), for the Temecula area, personnel arrived shortly after and took the man into custody, charging him with felony DUI and felony hit and run.

“The U.S. Border Patrol is an all-threats agency.  Stopping a convicted felon from fleeing the scene of a crime is a great example of this.  Through strong partnerships with local, state, and federal partners, we keep our communities and nation safe,” said Chief Patrol Agent Aaron Heitke.

To prevent the illicit smuggling of humans, drugs, and other contraband, the U.S. Border Patrol maintains a high level of vigilance on corridors of egress away from our Nation’s borders.  To report suspicious activity to the U.S. Border Patrol, contact San Diego Sector at (619) 498-9900.