December 25, 2022 – The San Diego County Sheriff's department reported that on Saturday, December 24 at around 8:00 p.m., deputies from the Vista Sheriff's Station responded to a home along Casa Bonita Way to investigate a family disturbance.  

Family members had reported they believed the suspect, James Park (DOB 12/29/1979), was under the influence of either drugs or alcohol. At one point, Park armed himself with a metal rod, threatened his family and damaged property. 

When deputies arrived on scene, Park got into his vehicle with the metal rod and drove off. Deputies followed Park along College Boulevard to the intersection of West Vista Way. That's where he ran a red light and collided with a North County Fire Ambulance traveling westbound on West Vista Way.

Two North County Fire paramedics in the ambulance were taken to the hospital for non-life-threatening injuries.

Park was transported to the hospital with severe injuries. He was arrested and on numerous charges, including felony evading and vandalism, as well as making criminal threats. The criminal investigation is ongoing.

The Sheriff's Traffic Accident Reconstruction (STAR) Team and Oceanside Police Department are investigating the collision. 

Source: San Diego County Sheriff's Department