CHP Crash Report: Car that killed SDPD Officer Machitar was traveling 125 MPH

A 325-page investigation reveals new details about the August 2024 crash that killed Officer Austin Machitar and critically injured his partner Zach Martinez.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 2:15am

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A 325-page California Highway Patrol investigation has revealed new details about the August 26, 2024 crash that killed San Diego Police Officer Austin Machitar and critically injured his partner Zach Martinez. The report states that the vehicle driven by 16-year-old Edgar Oviedo was traveling over 125 miles per hour when it collided with the police cruiser carrying Machitar and Martinez.

Why it matters

This tragic incident raises questions about police pursuit policies, the dangers of high-speed chases, and the need for improved safety measures to protect officers in the line of duty.

The details

According to the CHP report, the chase began when Officer Raymond Rodriguez spotted Oviedo's BMW making an aggressive turn and attempted to initiate a traffic stop. Oviedo fled instead, leading to a pursuit that lasted just 47 seconds. Oviedo reached speeds over 125 mph before colliding with the police cruiser carrying Machitar and Martinez, who were not wearing seatbelts. The violent crash caused the police vehicle to catch fire and spin out of control, resulting in Machitar's death and Martinez's critical injuries.

  • The incident occurred on August 26, 2024 at 11:31 p.m.
  • The pursuit lasted just 47 seconds.
  • Oviedo was traveling over 125 mph five seconds before the fatal impact.

The players

Edgar Oviedo

A 16-year-old driver who fled from police and caused the fatal crash.

Officer Austin Machitar

A San Diego Police Officer who was killed in the crash.

Officer Zach Martinez

Machitar's partner, who was critically injured in the crash but made a miraculous recovery.

Officer Raymond Rodriguez

The officer who initially attempted to pull over Oviedo's vehicle.

Police Chief Scott Wahl

The San Diego Police Chief who described Machitar as "the kind of guy you want on your team."

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What they’re saying

“He taught me to enjoy the job. Taught me to have fun. He taught me not everything has to be so serious about it.”

— Officer Zach Martinez (ABC 10News)

“Austin was the kinda guy who you want on your team.”

— Police Chief Scott Wahl (ABC 10News)

What’s next

The CHP investigation has concluded, but the incident is likely to prompt further discussions about police pursuit policies and officer safety measures.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the dangers of high-speed police chases and the need for improved safety protocols to protect officers in the line of duty. It also underscores the lasting impact of losing a respected and beloved member of the police force.