Auto Theft Arrest in San Marcos - Man Arrested After Pursuit 

July 14, 2026 – San Diego County Sheriff’s Office officials report that on Sunday, July 12, 2026, at approximately 11:32 a.m., deputies received an ALPR alert for a stolen white 2022 Kia Forte (CA 8VOX147) traveling northbound on Nordahl Road at Montiel Road. Deputies located the vehicle in the Stater Bros. parking lot at 1330 E. Mission Road. A traffic enforcement stop was initiated but the driver failed to yield to emergency lights and siren, and a pursuit ensued. The suspect drove at speeds of up to 80 mph before stopping at Hollandia Park and fleeing on foot. Deputies apprehended the suspect after a brief foot pursuit.

The driver was identified as Johan Carranza Acosta (19), who displayed signs of being under the influence of a controlled substance and was transported to Kaiser Hospital for medical clearance. Acosta was booked into the Vista Detention Facility for Evading a Peace Officer with Disregard for Public Safety, Auto Theft, and Possession of a Stolen Vehicle. The stolen vehicle, which had damage to the steering column, was towed from the scene, and the registered owner was notified. No injuries or property damage resulted from the incident.

The ALPR camera system continues to be a valuable tool in enhancing public safety and supporting law enforcement efforts to identify, locate, and apprehend dangerous criminal offenders. This case highlights the critical role the system played in apprehending a dangerous suspect who posed a threat to the community.

Source: San Diego County Sheriff’s Office