Overview
- Police say a suspected stolen Tesla that was being tracked by its owner was located and pursued before driving onto the Pacific Beach boardwalk and striking a 25-year-old woman who was taken to a hospital in critical condition.
- San Diego officers attempted to stop the car after the owner reported it stolen, and a field supervisor later terminated the pursuit because of rising risk to the public.
- During the chase the vehicle hit a San Diego Gas & Electric transformer and then stopped near the Baja Beach Cafe where the driver fled on foot and was chased down by bystanders.
- Bystanders detained the suspect, identified as 39-year-old Juan Antonio Gonzaba, who faces felony charges including DUI, hit-and-run, vehicle theft, and evading and is being held with bail set at $100,000.
- Court records show Gonzaba has a long criminal history dating back to 2009 which could shape prosecution decisions, and police continue a felony hit-and-run investigation as the victim remains hospitalized.