This week, officials reported that one San Diego police officer died and another was severely injured during a pursuit that occurred Monday night.

Officer Austin Machitar, 30 years old, lost his life in the incident, while Officer Zachary Martinez, 27, sustained serious injuries and remains in critical but stable condition.

The collision took place near Clairemont Mesa Boulevard, according to the police department’s announcement. The suspect involved also died at the scene.

The officers were attempting to stop a speeding vehicle just before 11:30 p.m. Monday. The driver did not comply, prompting a pursuit. As Machitar and Martinez were responding to the scene, their vehicle was struck by the suspect’s car, as reported by KGTV and KXTV.

Before the crash, a supervisor had ordered the pursuit to be called off due to the excessive speeds involved, KXTV noted.

The California Highway Patrol is currently carrying out an independent investigation into the incident.

‘He had a sparkling smile’

Machitar joined the San Diego Police Department in 2019 and worked in the northern patrol division. He also acted as a field training officer, contributing to the recruitment of new officers through videos and photoshoots for the department, as shared in a release by authorities.

Scott Wahl, the Chief of Police for the San Diego Police Department, shared the news during a press conference on Tuesday morning.

“Machitar was the type of person you wanted on your team,” Wahl stated. “He excelled in sports and was highly competitive, showing great enthusiasm for training.”

Wahl also mentioned that Machitar had trained Martinez, his partner, in 2023, and emphasized his “infectious smile.”

Machitar is survived by his sister and parents.

“As a father of four, I can only imagine the pain his parents are enduring right now,” Wahl expressed on Tuesday. “Our priority is to support them as they navigate this difficult time.”

Officer ‘fighting for his life’

Martinez, who has been a member of the department for roughly 18 months, also serves in the northern patrol division.

According to Chief Wahl’s statements during Tuesday’s press conference, Martinez is a U.S. Navy reservist from Texas. The Navy relocated him to San Diego where he “fell in love with this city,” Wahl noted.

“He was destined to serve,” Wahl said. “He is an EMT and genuinely cares about helping others. While we are hopeful for his recovery, he still has a long journey ahead.”

Wahl added that Martinez has sustained multiple injuries, and they are encouraging everyone to keep him in their thoughts and prayers.

Mayor urges community to appreciate officers

San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria expressed his condolences to Machitar’s family during the press conference and urged the community to pray for Martinez’s family as well.

“His injuries are severe, and he is fighting for his life,” Gloria stated. “We remain optimistic… it’s crucial that we keep him in our thoughts and prayers as he begins his healing process.”

Gloria emphasized the importance of acknowledging officers for their sacrifices, noting that they willingly accept the risks that come with their role as law enforcement officers.

“I encourage San Diegans, as you observe our officers in the coming days, to express your appreciation directly,” Gloria said. “It’s important that they hear this from us.”

He honored Machitar as a hero, recognizing his dedication to keeping the community safe.

“He gave his life serving the city, a debt that can never truly be repaid,” he remarked. “We will strive to show our gratitude to him, his family, his loved ones, fellow officers, and the team at the San Diego Police Department in the weeks and months to come.”

Jared Wilson, president of the San Diego Police Officers Association, addressed the gathering, mentioning that the association has set up a nonprofit to assist officers in times of crisis. They are currently raising funds to support both Machitar and Martinez.

To contribute, visit the San Diego Police Officers Association at www.sdpoa.org.