Octavio Escatel Fatally Injured in Hit-and-Run Accident on State Route 78 [Escondido, CA]

38-Year-Old Escondido Man Struck and Killed at North Broadway on Father’s Day

 
ESCONDIDO, CA (June 17, 2018) – A man was struck and killed by a hit-and-run driver on State Route 78, late Sunday night. The deceased victim was identified on Monday by the Medical Examiner’s Office as 38-year-old Octavio Escatel of Escondido.
 
The collision took place near the intersection of eastbound SR 78 and North Broadway, just after 11:00 PM, on the evening of Father’s Day.
 
According to California Highway Patrol Officer Gil Ochoa, two men were helping push a stalled Jeep off the road to the shoulder. A Toyota RAV$, driven by a 17-year-old Hispanic boy, failed to stop and crashed into them. He then swerved and struck a pickup truck that was stopped in the next lane over.
 
Escatel was critically injured and was pronounced dead on the scene before he could be transported to a hospital. The Jeep driver was seriously injured and sustained head trauma from the impact of the collision. His identity and current condition were not immediately released.
 
After the collision, the unidentified driver fled from the scene on foot. He was later found by officials at a nearby Rally’s and arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence. A loaded handgun, drugs, and paraphernalia were found in the car.
 
Lanes of the highway were closed until around 6:00 AM, as Escondido Police officials investigated the scene. No additional information has been released to the public at this time.
 
A GoFundMe page was set up to help Escatel’s family with funeral expenses. Click on the link to donate.

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Heartfelt condolences to the bereaved loved ones of Octavio Escatel. Wishing them strength and comfort in this difficult time. He leaves behind his three children. May he rest in peace.

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If you have lost a loved one in a tragic accident caused by the negligent driving of a person under the influence, contact the experienced wrongful death lawyers at Sweet Law Group. With over 40 years in the field, we know what it takes to achieve the justice and compensation that is owed. Call today at (800) 203-3061 for a free case evaluation at a location near you. We are also available to clients through email, text message, and online chat.