Suspected DUI Driver Arrested After Hit-and-Run in Santee

A man suspected of driving under the influence was arrested on March 10, 2024, following a hit-and-run incident in Santee, California. The San Diego County Sheriff’s Office (SDSO) reported that the accident occurred at approximately 21:27 in the 9000 block of Mission Gorge Road.

Witnesses described the suspect vehicle as traveling at a high rate of speed near the intersection of Mission Gorge and Fanita Drive when it collided with another vehicle. This crash left the other motorist stranded and obstructed traffic flow. The suspect, identified as 37-year-old Robert Panza, fled the scene on foot, heading towards the nearby San Diego River.

Authorities quickly responded to the incident, managing to contain the area. They detained Panza shortly thereafter. Upon his apprehension, law enforcement officials noted that he appeared to be intoxicated. Following his arrest, he was booked into sheriff’s custody on suspicion of misdemeanor DUI and hit-and-run offenses.

The SDSO is encouraging anyone with information related to this incident to reach out to the Santee Sheriff’s Station at 619-956-4000. This incident underscores the ongoing concerns surrounding impaired driving and the potential dangers it poses to public safety.