In a sobering reminder that the reckless actions of an impaired driver can quickly spiral into violence, a chaotic scene unfolded on an Ojai street this past week. According to a news release from the Ojai Patrol Station, Russell Escalona, 27, of Oxnard, stands accused of a DUI-related collision and an attempted carjacking that occurred near the intersection of Ojai Avenue at Del Norte Road.
The incident was first reported on November 18 when deputies responded to the site of the collision where a white Volkswagen Tiguan had struck a utility pole, in their efforts to contain the situation, a victim emerged reporting an assault and an attempted carjacking by Escalona, the suspect had fled after a witness had spotted him, deputies initiated a pursuit they managed to apprehend Escalona after a brief foot chase. The victim, a 51-year-old Ojai resident, sustained minor injuries from the assault but was able to provide a detailed description of the assailant.
The situation quickly escalated from a mere traffic incident to a criminal act when the nearby witness identified Escalona at the Von's Shopping Center and reported him to the authorities. In a subsequent response, law enforcement officers engaged in a foot chase through the parking lot that led to the arrest of Escalona, who also incurred minor injuries in the process.
Upon his capture, Escalona was charged with a suite of violation,s including attempted carjacking, battery, resisting arrest, DUI involving alcohol and drugs, and hit-and-run. The aftermath of this destructive behavior didn't end with just the immediate charges, for Escalona also faced the consequences of a missed court appearance with an outstanding local misdemeanor warrant looming over his head. Detective Joseph Sharif, in a release prepared for the media, cited the specific violations against Escalona and confirmed the booking with an approved photo release by Captain Steven Jenkins.
Those seeking further details or looking to follow up on the incident have been directed to contact Detective Sharif at the Ojai Patrol Station.
