John Eugene Brand Arrested after Horrific High-Speed Pursuit Crash on Auto Park Way [Escondido, CA]

1 Dead in Escondido Car Accident on Auto Park Way

ESCONDIDO, CA (December 20, 2023) – Monday night, John Eugene Brand was arrested after a horrific high-speed pursuit crash on Auto Park Way.

Initially, officers were requested at about 10:28 p.m. in the Dick’s Sporting Goods store on Auto Park Way after reports of a man and two women stealing merchandise.

Upon their arrival, the three suspects got into a pickup truck and fled, prompting the officers to pursue the vehicle.

“Officers pursued the truck east through Escondido onto Washington Avenue, where the driver attempted to make a high-speed turn onto Fig Street,” EPD said. “He lost control and collided with a retaining wall. The two female passengers were ejected, and the male driver ran away.”

As a result, one of the women succumbed to injuries at the hospital. Meanwhile, the other woman underwent surgery and is expected to survive.

Moreover, officers confirmed that they “asked the driver to pull over several times, but he refused to let her out of the vehicle.”

Eventually, officers found the 21-year-old driver hiding a block away from where the crash happened. Then, they arrested him on suspicion of the following charges: vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence, kidnapping, evading police with wanton disregard for safety, evading police causing serious injury or death, evading a police officer, hit-and-run resulting in death or injury, burglary, and conspiracy.

Escondido police added that the suspect is a Marine lance corporal stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, and the truck he used in the incident was a Marine-owned vehicle.
“Stolen articles of clothing were recovered from the truck,” EPD’s press release said.

At this time, the circumstances that led to the crash remained unclear. Once additional details become available, the public will be notified.

Due to the limited information available, the authorities continued to investigate the Escondido crash.

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Sweet Lawyers extends our condolences to the family and community of the victim.

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Moving Forward after Crash Involving John Eugene Brand

While the loss of a dear one is irreversible, it is in the best interest of you and your family to be aware of what to do next.
 
The family of the victim must become aware that they may have the authority to file a wrongful death suit. A wrongful death suit can be the most beneficial step toward recovery.
 
Filing a wrongful death claim will help alleviate the financial burden the death of a relative has generated.
 
“Having legal representation after such a traumatic event will provide your family the space to heal while ensuring that justice is brought to your loved one,” says Mark Sweet, of Sweet Lawyers.
 
If you or someone you love has been involved in a similar auto accident, you do not have to face the aftermath alone. We strive for legal representation that encourages families to remain strong and find hope in their future. Above all, we understand the gravity of the situation at hand and want to help you. With our seasoned wrongful death lawyers, you will only need to tend to your well-being while we focus on your legal claim. Furthermore, our attorneys will ensure that you and your family receive the justice and compensation you deserve. For more information, call us now for a free consultation at (800) 674 7852.