Community remembers San Diego police officer who died in chase

SAN DIEGO – Funeral arrangements are underway for Austin Machitar, the San Diego police officer who was killed in a car chase Monday night.

Machitar's partner, Zachary Martinez, remains in critical but stable condition in the intensive care unit at Sharp Memorial Hospital.

Police officials said he had serious injuries, including burns.

The San Diego Police Officer's Association flew Martinez's mother from Texas to be at his side.

“It's tough, it's really tough,” said POA President Jared Wilson. Wilson says the entire department is reeling from Monday's crash and the significant loss of Machitar.
Machitar served as a mentor and frequently appeared in department training videos and posters.

The 30-year-old had been with the police for five and a half years, working in the city's Northern Division. He had an infectious smile and a passion for the service, following in his father's footsteps.

“His father was a retired deputy sheriff and dedicated his life to public service. We will not forget that,” Wilson said.

Machitar, who leaves behind his parents and sister, grew up in Chula Vista and attended Otay Ranch High School, where he excelled in baseball.

Machitar's cousin told CBS 8 in a statement: “I love my cousin. He was an amazing man.”

California Senator Steve Padilla also commented on Machitar, saying he has known him for years.

“Most importantly, I had the honor of knowing him for the man he was, but more than that, I loved him as a person. He was warm, thoughtful, gentle, and kind. Austin had a bright million-dollar smile that put everyone at ease. He was always willing to help and find ways to help.

I knew him early in his young adult life, when he was searching for his calling without giving up his youthful sense of adventure and zest for life. He found that calling as an officer of the San Diego Police Department and undoubtedly served with distinction. As Chief Wahl said, “Our community has lost one of the good ones.”

I will never forget this sincere young man. I will always love and respect the brave hero he grew up to be. My family and I, as well as our community, are heartbroken and our thoughts and prayers are with his family.”

Machitar died Monday after a suspect involved in a previous chase collided with his police SUV on Clairemont Mesa Boulevard.

As for Martinez, the 27-year-old is a Texas native and Navy reservist who moved to San Diego for his military service. Although he is hopeful, he has a long road to recovery, according to police.

The Police Officers Association is raising funds to help both families cope with this tragedy.

“And we are very fortunate as a large organization to have such great community support and to be able to be there for us in times of crisis like this,” Wilson said.

The accident and its cause are currently under investigation. The name of the suspect, who was also killed, was not released by police.

The San Diego Police Officers Association has set up a way to help the officers. Funds will go to the SDPOA Foundation, which directly helps officers in times of need. Funds raised now will go to the deceased officer's family and to the second officer.

Click here for more information.

SEE ALSO: 'Heroes': San Diego police officer killed in fire accident identified

RELATED: San Diego police officer dead, another seriously injured after fiery crash in Clairemont Mesa