Fil-Am cop killed in California patrol vehicle crash; colleague hurt

NEW YORK — A Filipino-American member of the San Diego, California Police Department was killed Monday after a car collided with his patrol vehicle while responding to a car chase on Clairemont Mesa Boulevard in San Diego.

The San Diego Police Department is currently mourning the death of Fil-Am officer Austin Machitar, 30, who had served as a police officer in San Diego for five years. 

Machitar was assigned to patrol and served as a field training officer. His colleague, identified as Zach Martinez, 27, is in critical condition.

The driver involved in the collision also died, though authorities have not yet released the name.

In a message of condolence, California Governor Gavin Newsom expressed sorrow over the incident.

“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,” Newsom said.

Filipino-American and San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria also mourned Machitar’s death.

In a statement, Gloria said his office is ready to support Machitar’s family.

“Our city mourns the tragic loss of one of San Diego’s finest, Officer Austin Machitar. His distinguished service to our city made him a hero. I offer the deepest condolences of the city to Austin’s family and loved ones,” Gloria said.

“We pray for the full recovery of his partner, Officer Zachary Martinez, who was gravely injured in the crash.”

The Filipino community is also grieving Machitar’s passing and is hoping for Martinez's swift recovery.

The California Highway Patrol is currently investigating the incident. —KBK, GMA Integrated News