A Police officer was hospitalized following a collision with a suspect fleeing from the California Highway Patrol. Early this morning, dispatch advised Modesto Police officers that the California Highway Patrol was in pursuit of a Toyota Tundra in the airport neighborhood. A Modesto Police officer moved toward the area to assist, traveling westbound on Yosemite. The suspect, 25-year-old Nazario Castillo of Modesto, was traveling northbound on Santa Ana, with officers in pursuit, when he ran a stop sign at Yosemite and broadsided the officer.

The officer was transported to a local hospital where he is in serious, but stable condition. The officer involved is Juan Arroyo. Juan has been an officer with the Modesto Police Department for 5 years.  Castillo was transported to a local hospital where he is being treated for minor injuries. The California Highway Patrol is conducting a criminal investigation into the pursuit and the suspect driving while under the influence.

Please note that this release is intended to be a brief update based on preliminary information. As police continue their investigation, they welcome any information that would help them better understand what took place. Anyone with information is encouraged to call Crime Stoppers at 209-521-4636. Callers to Crime Stoppers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.