Suspected DUI Driver Arrested In Deadly Hit-And-Run Crash In East County

EL CAJON, CA — A suspected drunk driver was arrested after hitting and killing a man who was pushing a shopping cart over the weekend in San Diego's Eat County, authorities said.

Officers responded to reports of a crash shortly before 1 a.m. Sunday near the intersection of Chase and Avocado avenues in El Cajon, where a vehicle struck a fire hydrant and a power pole, according to the El Cajon Police Department.

"The damaged fire hydrant sent water gushing into the air, and the power pole had been sheared," police Lt. Joe Crawford said. "Callers also reported that a pedestrian pushing a shopping cart had been struck and appeared to be deceased."

Paramedics pronounced the pedestrian dead at the scene. The driver and vehicle involved in the crash fled the scene prior to police arrival, Crawford said.

"Utilizing automated license plate readers, officers identified a white GMC SUV captured immediately after the collision," he said. "The vehicle was located unoccupied in the 500 block of Sandalwood Drive with an airbag deployed and damage consistent with the crash. "

Officers contacted a man at a nearby residence who "displayed signs of intoxication and admitted to being the driver," Crawford said.

The suspect, whose name was not released, was taken into custody without incident.

Police asked anyone with any information about the crash to contact the department at 619-579-3311.