Driver Blamed in 13 Crashes, Says He Smoked Pot First Thursday, March 25th, 2010 4:35 pm | by cadfy

The 24-year-old from Temecula began hitting vehicles at about 2:40 p.m. while driving the sport utility vehicle north on Bear Valley Parkway near Royal Crest Drive, said Escondido police Sergeant Don Shumate. At least seven crashes were reported to police in that area, and the man did not stop for any of them, Shumate said.

He made a U-turn, started driving south and spent most of his time on the wrong side of the road, the sergeant said. Many drivers had to swerve to avoid hitting the SUV. The man caused another six wrecks before he stopped after a head-on crash with a vehicle on Via Rancho Parkway near Interstate 15, the sergeant said. At one point, he passed in front of San Pasqual High School.

Two people were taken to a hospital to be treated for injuries; they are expected to survive.

When confronted by officers, the man said he had smoked marijuana and showed them a medical marijuana card that he obtained for treatment of an undisclosed ailment to justify his behavior, Shumate said. The man struck one officer in the face as he resisted being arrested, the sergeant said.

He left a total of 13 reported crashes in a one-mile stretch. Police believe he may have crashed into more vehicles because of debris officers found on the road, but those crashes have not been reported.

The man was booked into County Jail on suspicion of felony hit and run, battery on a peace officer and driving under the influence of marijuana.