Two Hospitalized in PCH Multi-Vehicle Crash in Seal Beach
Seal Beach, CA (June 7, 2020) – On Saturday evening, two Seal Beach police officers sustained injuries in a multi-vehicle hit-and-run crash on PCH near Seal Beach Boulevard.
Police then arrested the 23-year-old Oscar Mercado of Long Beach.
Reportedly, officers responded to a first reported incident of a four-car collision in the area of Seal Beach Boulevard and Pacific Coast Highway just after 6:30 p.m on June 6.
While they were investigating the first reported accident, they got another call of a possible drunk driver coming northbound on PCH near Seal Beach Boulevard.
Then, one of the investigating officers allegedly intentionally struck by the reported drunk driver’s gray Dodge Durango. The officer then fired his gun at the driver through the front windshield but did not hit him.
However, the driver fled the scene northbound on PCH at a high rate of speed and crashed into the driver’s side of another Seal Beach police officer who drove his patrol car.
Moreover, Mercado crashed head-on to another vehicle and stopped. He then again fled with his 4-year-old daughter on foot, leading officers on a short pursuit.
Finally, officers arrested him and took the child. Police then also found Mercado’s 12-year-old brother abandoned in the car.
The Suspect’s Case and Updates
At this time, Mercado is booked in Orange County Jail and is facing charges on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon on a police officer, felony hit-and-run, felony child endangerment for both children, and resisting or delaying a peace officer with violence.
Furthermore, his bail is set at $100,000, and he is scheduled to appear in court Tuesday, O.C. booking records show.
Meanwhile, both injured police officers were taken to a local hospital for non-life-threatening injuries and are now recovering.
Further investigation is ongoing and anyone with information about the incident may call Detective Jeff Gibson at 562-799-4100 ext. 1109.
What to do after a Multi-Vehicle Accident
The most valuable step you can take in response to a vehicle crash is hiring a personal injury attorney. Mark Sweet, a personal injury attorney at Sweet Lawyers, says that serious car accident cases may call for a separate investigation spearheaded by an experienced lawyer fighting on behalf of the injured party.
Accidents can leave you or your passengers severely injured, disfigured, and permanently disabled. If you are or a family member is involved in a similar accident, turn to Sweet lawyers. Our firm works tirelessly to ensure that the people we work for are granted the highest restitution possible. Call our offices now at (800) 674-7852 and let us help you deal with your case. You can also reach us by email and talk through our live online chat. Dont worry, your consultation is free and confidential. Above all, we do not ask for any silly retainer fees. Pay us when we are able to grant you justice and compensate you for your loss.