On Saturday,january 17,2026,at approximately 9:00 p.m., deputies from the Vista Sheriff’s Station arrested efrain Bernardino Gomez, 28, following a vehicle pursuit and subsequent altercation. Gomez was booked on multiple felony charges,including driving under the influence (DUI) and resisting arrest.
Vehicle Pursuit and Arrest
Deputies initially observed a Ford Ranger traveling at a high speed and weaving through traffic in the 800 block of North Santa Fe Avenue in Vista. When deputies attempted a traffic stop, Gomez refused too yield, initiating a vehicle pursuit. The pursuit lasted less then one mile at low speeds, wiht a maximum speed of approximately 29 mph.
Altercation and Use of Force
The vehicle came to a stop in a residential driveway in the 800 block of North Citrus Avenue. Gomez did not comply with deputies’ verbal commands and attempted to flee on foot. During the ensuing struggle as deputies attempted to take him into custody,Gomez grabbed the barrel of a deputy’s firearm and attempted to disarm them. A Conductive Energy Device (CED), commonly known as a Taser, was deployed to subdue Gomez, allowing deputies to safely take him into custody without further incident.
No Injuries or Property Damage
According to the San Diego County Sheriff’s department, no deputies were injured during the incident, and no property damage occurred. San Diego County Sheriff’s department
charges and Booking
Gomez was transported to the Vista Detention Facility and booked on felony charges of DUI and resisting arrest.The investigation is ongoing.
Key Takeaways
- High-Speed Pursuit: The incident began with a vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed and failing to yield to law enforcement.
- Attempted Disarmament: Gomez actively resisted arrest and attempted to take a deputy’s firearm.
- Use of Force: A Taser was used to safely subdue the suspect.
- No Injuries: The incident concluded without any injuries to law enforcement personnel.
Media Contact: Lieutenant Noah Zarnow
[email protected]
Vista Sheriff’s Station (760) 940-4551