August 28, 2024 - SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom on Tuesday issued the following statement regarding the death of San Diego Police Department Officer Austin Machitar:

“Jennifer and I are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Officer Machitar. His loved ones, friends and colleagues at the San Diego Police Department are in our hearts during this difficult time. Our thoughts are also with his fellow officer who was seriously injured.”

On August 26, 2024, Officer Machitar and his partner were responding to a vehicle pursuit in the City of San Diego when their patrol vehicle was broadsided by the suspect vehicle at an intersection. Officer Machitar succumbed to his injuries, and his partner has been transported to a local hospital with major injuries.

Officer Machitar, 30, joined the San Diego Police Department in March of 2019. 

He is survived by his parents and sister.

In honor of Officer Machitar, flags at the State Capitol and Capitol Annex Swing Space will be flown at half-staff.

Source: Office of the Governor

Per San Diego Police Department: 

It is with the heaviest of hearts that the San Diego Police Department announces the tragic loss of Officer Austin Machitar #7989. Officer Machitar and his partner, Officer Zachary Martinez #1901, were involved in a collision last night while responding to a vehicle pursuit.  Officer Martinez suffered severe injuries due to the collision and is in critical but stable condition. 

Words cannot convey the loss we all feel in this moment.  Please keep their families and friends in your prayers.  We thank the community and our fellow law enforcement agencies for all your outpouring of love and support as we grieve this heartbreaking loss of Officer Austin Machitar and as Officer Zachary Martinez still fights to recover from his injuries.

For anyone looking to support these officers and their families, please visit SDPOA.Org for further information.

Source & photo: San Diego Police Department