Stolen Vehicle Pursuit - Santee 

March 5, 2026 – San Diego County Sheriff’s Office officials report that on Wednesday, March 4, just after 1:00 a.m., deputies from the Santee Sheriff's Station responded to a report of a stolen 2020 Jeep Wrangler, taken from the 10300 block of Molino Road in Santee.

The vehicle was later located traveling eastbound on Woodside Avenue. When deputies attempted a traffic stop, the driver failed to yield, leading to a short pursuit.

The pursuit ended near North Magnolia Avenue and Fletcher Parkway in El Cajon when the suspect lost control and collided with several unoccupied parked vehicles. The suspect, Jesus Tizoc-Ocon (18), sustained serious injuries and was transported to a hospital. He is in stable condition.

Once he is released from the hospital, Tizoc-Ocon will be booked on charges of vehicle theft, evading a peace officer, and possession of burglary tools.

No deputies or community members were injured. The investigation is ongoing.

Law enforcement agencies across Southern California are seeing an increase in the theft of specific vehicles, including 2020 Jeep Wranglers, Gladiators and Jeep Rubicons. These stolen vehicles are often driven directly across the border to Mexico, making recovery difficult.

Auto thieves are using electronic devices to reprogram key fobs and steal newer push-to-start vehicles within minutes.

The San Diego County Sheriff's Office encourages vehicle owners to use visible anti-theft devices such as steering wheel locks and park in well-lit areas or within view of cameras whenever possible.

Anyone with additional information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact the Santee Sheriff's Station at (619) 956-4000. 

Source: San Diego County Sheriff’s Office