A Sunnyvale man was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs after his vehicle crashed into a tree in Pacifica, according to local authorities. The collision prompted a police investigation that led to the driver's arrest on additional charges of possessing a controlled substance. The Pacifica Police Department reported the incident on Saturday at the Lundy Way and Cullen Drive intersection around 2:08 PM.
The driver, identified as 23-year-old Joel Tejada-Mercado, was allegedly found to have been driving impaired at the time of the incident. According to the social media post from the Pacifica Police Department, Tejada-Mercado now faces charges including 23152(G) CVC for DUI that involves both alcohol and drugs, and 11350(a) H&S for possession of a controlled substance. Despite the circumstances around the crash, the report confirmed that no injuries were sustained.
Following the arrest, Tejada-Mercado was later released on a criminal citation at a sobering facility. The Pacifica Police's announcement reminded the public to play an active role in community safety by reporting suspected impaired drivers through the national emergency contact, 9-1-1.
The Police Department is seeking additional information on this case and has encouraged anyone with potential insights to come forward. Contact the Pacifica Police Department at 650-738-7314 or use the Silent Witness Tip Line at 650-359-4444, referring to case #25-1102.
