LA MESA — A 1997 Toyota Camry—famous for racking up odometer milestones—likely had a few hundred thousand miles left in it, but the center median on Jackson Drive had other plans Monday night.
Around 10:30 p.m., the northbound Camry struck the median curb just south of El Paso Street, shearing off its oil pan and flattening a road sign. The front airbags appeared to deploy, and the car rolled about 150 feet before settling on the curb—leaving a very obvious trail of motor oil from impact to stop. As the first La Mesa police unit arrived, the driver stepped out and tried to walk away but was quickly detained.
Paramedics evaluated him and found no serious injuries. No other vehicles or bystanders were involved. Officers arrested the man on suspicion of DUI. He opted for an ambulance ride to the hospital; LMPD followed and said he would be escorted to jail after medical clearance.
A wry reminder wrapped in steel and airbags: Toyotas might be durable, but DUI is dangerous—full stop.
