CHP report of Big rig crash on Hwy 49

   On October 11, 2016 around 8:52 AM Zachary Gomez (38), listed as homeless, was driving a 2005 Honda CRV  westbound on Hwy 4 in Arnold when a citizen observed the vehicle traveling directly behind her.

   She recognized the vehicle from a Nixel report and contacted 911.  A CHP unit was in the area of Hathaway Pines when he observed the vehicle pass his location.

   CHP initiated an enforcement stop on the vehicle. However, the Honda failed to yield and continued westbound on Hwy 4.

   The pursuit continued into Angels Camp at which time the vehicle turned right onto northbound Hwy 49.

   Salvador Lopez (61) of Esparto was driving a 2011 Kenworth big rig northbound on Hwy 49 just north of Carol Kennedy Road.

   The pursuit of the Honda continued northbound and as Gomez approached the big rig, began to pass the truck across the double yellow lines.

   After passing the big rig, Gomez swerved back into the northbound lane sidewiping the big rig.

   Lopez lost control of the big rig and ran off Hwy 49, overturning (partially blocking the northbound lane).

   Gomez continued northbound but due to the Hondas damage it is unable to continue any further, coming to a stop at the Cement Bridge. Gomez then tries to take "foot bail".

   However, CHP units were able to take Gomez into custody and he was booked into the Calaveras County Jail on the following alleged charges:

      1.  10851(a)VC - Possession of a Stolen Vehicle
      2.  2800.2(a)VC - Evading Arrest
      3.  23153(a)VC - Felony, Driving Under the Influence
      4.  20001(a)VC - Felony Hit and Run

   Gomez is also a suspect in a home invasion and car jacking in the West Point area. Calaveras Sheriff deputies are investigation those charges.

   Lopez was transporting lime ash when it overturned.  The spill was contained and not a danger to the waterways.  OES was called to the scene to assist with the spill.

   One way traffic control was set up on Hwy 49 just north of Carol Kennedy Road. Lopez was transported to Mark Twain Hospital with major injuries.

   As a result of this same incident an Angels Camp Police Officer crashed into a car in the intersection of Hwy 4 and 49 while joining the pursuit.  We have not yet seen that report.