2 CHP Officers Seriously Injured In IE After Suspected DUI Motorist Crashes Into Them

VICTORVILLE, CA — Two California Highway Patrol officers were recovering Monday after being seriously injured in the Inland Empire by a suspected DUI motorist who also hurt.

The officers, who were not identified, were injured Thursday night after 23-year-old Cantor Yahancy smashed his Mercedes-Benz into their patrol vehicle in the intersection of Cobalt Road and Hook Boulevard in Victorville, according to CHP Officer Ivan Sandoval.

Shortly after 8 p.m., CHP officers attempted to stop a silver 2007 Mercedes-Benz for a traffic violation on Hopland Street near El Evado Road.

After initially yielding, the driver fled, leading officers on a brief pursuit, which they stopped after losing sight of the Mercedes, according to Sandoval.

A short time later, the Mercedes, driven by Yahancy, was heading south on Cobalt Road when it entered the Hook Boulevard intersection and collided with a CHP patrol vehicle, Sandoval reported.

"At the time of the crash, CHP officers were no longer actively pursuing the suspect vehicle," according to Sandoval.

Yahancy suffered major injuries in the crash and was transported to a local hospital. Investigators suspect he was driving under the influence of alcohol, which contributed to the crash, Sandoval reported.

Jail records show Yahancy has not yet been booked.

A passenger in the Mercedes also suffered major injuries and was transported for medical treatment. The person's identity was not released.

The two CHP officers involved in the crash sustained major injuries and were transported to a regional trauma
center.

"Their injuries are not considered life-threatening, and both officers are expected to recover," Sandoval reported.

Yahancy is under investigation for driving under the influence causing injury and felony evading a peace officer. Additional charges may be filed as the investigation continues, according to Sandoval.