Police officer from Lubbock seriously hurt in fiery San Diego crash

LUBBOCK, Texas — A San Diego, California police officer who is from Lubbock, Zach Martinez, 27, was severely injured late Monday night while responding to a high speed-pursuit, authorities confirmed.

Police said the fiery crash happened around 11:30 p.m. near Clairemont Mesa Boulevard and Doliva Drive. Martinez’s partner, Austin Machitar, 30, passed away at the scene of the crash. Martinez was taken to Sharp Memorial Hospital in San Diego.

EverythingLubbock.com’s affiliate station reported San Diego Police Department Chief Scott Wahl said the chase started when officers tried to pull over a speeding vehicle, but the driver didn’t stop. Martinez and Machitar were responding when the fleeing driver crashed into their vehicle, according to the report. Police said the driver also passed away at the scene.

Martinez, who has been with SDPD for about a year-and-a-half, is a Navy Reservist and EMT, according to EverythingLubbock.com’s affiliate.

SDPD has created a donation page to support the officers’ families. The money will go directly to the Martinez and Machitar families, police said. Click here to donate.

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