Citizens Against Legalizing Marijuana – CALM

Man Crashes 13 Times – Says He Was High on Pot

Temecula, San Diego – A man who admitted to driving under the influence of marijuana caused at least 13 crashes yesterday afternoon, police said. The spree ended when he hit a vehicle head-on, disabling the 1998 Nissan Pathfinder he was driving.

The 24-year-old from Temecula began hitting vehicles at about 2:40 p.m. while driving the sport utility vehicle north on Bear Valley parkway near Royal Crest Drive, Escondido police Sgt. Don Shumate said. At least seven crashes were reported to police in that area, and the man did not stop for any of them, Shumate said.

He made a U-turn and started driving south, most of the time on the wrong side of the road, Shumate said. Several drivers swerved to avoid hitting the SUV. There were another six wrecks before he crashed head-on with a vehicle on Via Rancho Parkway near Interstate 15, Shumate said. At one point the driver passed in front of San Pasqual High School.

Two people were injured and taken to a hospital. They are expected to survive, authorities said.

When confronted by officers, the man said he had smoked marijuana and showed them a medical marijuana card that he obtained for treatment of an undisclosed ailment, Shumate said. The man struck one officer in the face while being arrested Shumate said.

Thirteen crashes were reported in a one-mile stretch. Police believe the SUV may have crashed into more vehicles because of debris officers found on the road.

The man was booked into County Jail on suspicion of felony hit and run, battery on a peace officer and driving under the influence of marijuana.

Jose Luis Jimenez
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