Suspected Car Thief Arrested After Pursuit In San Marcos

SAN MARCOS, CA — A man was arrested after deputies pursued a stolen vehicle through San Marcos before he abandoned the car and fled on foot, authorities said.

Deputies received an automated license plate reader alert around 11:30 a.m. Sunday indicating a stolen 2022 Kia Forte was traveling north on Nordahl Road near Montiel Road, according to the San Diego County Sheriff's Office.

Deputies located the vehicle in the Stater Bros. parking lot at 1330 E. Mission Road and attempted a traffic stop. According to the sheriff's office, the driver refused to stop, leading deputies on a pursuit that reached speeds of up to 80 mph before the vehicle stopped near Hollandia Park.

The driver then ran but was arrested after a brief foot chase, officials said.

The suspect was identified as 19-year-old Johan Carranza Acosta. Deputies said he showed signs of being under the influence of a controlled substance and was taken to a hospital for medical clearance before being booked into the Vista Detention Facility.

Acosta was booked on suspicion of evading a peace officer with reckless disregard for public safety, auto theft and possession of a stolen vehicle.

The recovered vehicle, which had damage to the steering column, was towed and the registered owner was notified. No injuries or property damage were reported.