By allowing ads to appear on this site, you support the local businesses who, in turn, support great journalism.
West Side Ambulance unit damaged in crash
Ambulance crash
A suspected drunk driver plowed into a West Side Community ambulance Feb. 8. (Photo Contributed)

A suspected drunk driver crashed into a West Side Community ambulance, taking the vehicle out of service for the health care district.

The collision happened at 8:4 p.m. on Feb. 8 at the intersection of W. Monte Vista Avenue and Crows Landing Road, according to the California Highway Patrol.

The ambulance, a 2019 Ford Transit Van, was being driven by Eunice Garcia southbound on Crows Landing Road, approaching the intersection.

A 2004 Honda sedan, driven by Alex Santiago Ramirez Lopez, 27, of Turlock was headed northbound on W. Monte Vista Avenue.

Lopez did not stop at the posted stop sign and entered the intersection just in front of the ambulance, said CHP spokesman Officer Tom Olsen. The ambulance had the right of way, according to the CHP.

 A broadside collision occurred with the ambulance sustaining significant front-end damage.

Immediately after the collision, Lopez exited his Honda and walked away from the scene, heading eastbound on W. Monte Vista Avenue.

A Stanislaus County Sheriff’s deputy located Lopez walking on W. Monte Vista Avenue. The deputy noticed obvious signs of intoxication and Lopez was taken into custody.

Lopez was taken to Doctors Medical Center for medical clearance. He was then arrested on suspicion of felony DUI and hit and run.

Garcia sustained minor injuries and was transported to Memorial Medical Center. The passenger, David Maison also had minor injuries and was taken to the same hospital.

The collision did cause the ambulance to be taken out of service but it is not impacting coverage for the region, said West Side Community Health Care District Board President Dennis Brazil. He said the district have back up ambulances and one of those is now being used.