3 Killed and 8 Injured after Border Patrol Chase Ends in Crash on Interstate 8 [San Diego, CA]

Luis Alberto Virgen Arrested after Fatal High-Speed Pursuit near Crestwood Road

SAN DIEGO, CA (November 29, 2018) – Three people were killed and eight were seriously injured Thursday afternoon following a crash on Interstate 8. The identities of the victims are being withheld, pending notification of next of kin.

According to the California Highway Patrol, an attempt to smuggle immigrants happened at about 4:30 PM. Border Patrol agents tried to stop a white Chevrolet Silverado near the US-Mexico border in eastern San Diego County, but the driver of the pickup failed to pull over.

A spike strip was deployed to stop the fleeing driver, causing the pickup to lose control. The Chevrolet veered off the right side of the highway, went up a dirt embankment, became airborne, and rolled down the embankment.

Three people inside the pickup suffered fatal injuries and were pronounced dead at the scene by emergency responders. Meanwhile, eight people were transported to hospitals with moderate to serious injuries. Further updates on their current medical conditions were not immediately provided.

The pickup driver, later identified as 21-year-old Luis Alberto Virgen of Tijuana, was booked into San Diego Central Jail on suspicion of three counts of vehicular manslaughter. He was being held on $150,000 bail pending arraignment.

An investigation is ongoing to determine the cause of the crash and to identify possible contributing factors. Additional information will be released once it becomes available.

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We at Sweet Law Group offer our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the deceased victims. May they all rest in peace.

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If you have suddenly lost a loved one in an accident caused by a reckless driver, contact the wrongful death lawyers at Sweet Law Group. We understand what you and your family are going through, and we are here to help you. Our attorneys and professional legal team have dealt with a variety of cases including personal injury, disability, and car accidents. Untiringly, our team will fight for you until we achieve the justice and compensation that is owed. Call our offices today at (800) 203-3061 today to set up a free consultation with a legal professional in your area. For your convenience, you also reach us through email, text message, and online chat 24 hours a day and 7 days a week.