Authorities Identify San Diego Police Officer Killed In Crash

SAN DIEGO, CA — Authorities have identified the San Diego police officer who was killed and another who was critically injured in a crash following a high-speed pursuit late Monday night in the Clairemont Mesa area of San Diego.

Austin Machitar, 30, of San Diego, joined the San Diego Police Department in March 2019 and was assigned to the Northern Division. During his time with the department, Machitar served as a field training officer and took an active role in recruiting new officers by participating in recruiting photoshoots and videos.

He is survived by his parents and sister, San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl said during a press conference Tuesday evening.

Machitar's patrol partner, Zachary Martinez, 27, was critically injured in the collision. He is in critical but stable condition at a local hospital.

The pursuit suspect was also killed in the multi-vehicle collision.

The crash happened shortly after 11:30 p.m. in the 5200 block of Clairemont Mesa Boulevard, after a pursuit was called off for a vehicle that did not pull over while speeding down Clairemont Mesa Boulevard, according to the San Diego Police Department.

The suspect collided into the side of the police vehicle with both officers inside. Machitar and the suspect were pronounced dead at the scene.

There were at least two other civilian vehicles involved in the crash, Wahl said, but no other injuries were reported.

"Our city mourns the tragic loss of one of San Diego's finest, Officer Austin Machitar," San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria said in a statement. "His distinguished service to our city makes him a hero. I offer the deepest condolences of the city to Austin's family and loved ones.

"We pray for the full recovery of his patrol partner, Zachary Martinez, who was gravely injured in the crash," he added. "The city, in partnership with the San Diego Police Officers Association, will support both families in every way possible as they navigate the coming days. San Diego is grateful to our brave police officers who put themselves in harm's way every single day to keep us safe. Your sacrifices are appreciated and will never be forgotten."

In honor of Machitar, flags at the state Capitol and Capitol Annex Swing Space will be flown at half-staff, Governor Gavin Newsom announced.

"Jennifer and I are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Officer Machitar," Newsom said in a statement. "His loved ones, friends and colleagues at the San Diego Police Department are in our hearts during this difficult time. Our thoughts are also with his fellow officer who was seriously injured."