Eugene, Ore. – At 7:47 p.m., on March 25, Eugene Police received a call regarding a Ford Focus that had struck occupied vehicles near 196 Commons Drive before leaving the roadway and striking a building’s brick and mortar light post, shearing it from the ground and then the side of a Gateway Gardens building.
An investigation found a Nissan Altima’s driver had been driving south on Commons Drive when he observed the Ford coming directly at him. The driver of the victim vehicle attempted to avoid collision but the Ford struck his vehicle on the driver’s side, causing damage. The Ford’s driver then failed to navigate the turn on Commons Drive, went off the road and then returned to the roadway where he struck a Dodge Caravan. The Caravan was occupied by a woman and her two children. The woman was transported to a local hospital for treatment of non-life threatening injuries.
Investigating officers suspected the Ford’s driver, ELIJIAH MICHEAL GARCIA, age 21, of Eugene, was intoxicated. After further investigation he was taken into custody and to the Lane County Jail on the following charges: DUII, Reckless Driving, four counts of Reckless Endangerment, two counts of Hit and Run, and Criminal Mischief in the Second Degree. He was issued a citation for Driving While Suspended.
(Garcia is no longer in custody)
Case 22-04775
(Information from EPD)
