Two vehicle crash causes PT Cruiser to run off roadway, down embankment, and catch on fire

**THIS STORY HAS BEEN UPDATED**

The California Highway Patrol has confirmed that a two vehicle accident occurred Monday night, December 23, at approximately 6:14 p.m. at Old Highway 395 and West Lilac Road in Bonsall

According to CHP officer Curtis Martin, the two vehicles involved were a 2004 Chevrolet Impala and a 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser.

Martin said the PT Cruiser's driver, Juan Garcia, 41, of Escondido was traveling southbound on Old Highway 395 and had the right-of-way when the driver of the Impala, George Gartel, 22, of Temecula proceeded eastbound on West Lilac Road past a stop sign, causing the collision.

"Gartel pulled in front of Garcia and the collision sent the PT Cruiser over the edge of the roadway," said Martin. The PT Cruiser, with Garcia inside, then traveled about 25 feet down an embankment.

"Luckily Mr. Garcia got out of the vehicle quickly because after traveling down the embankment, the

burst into flames and adjoining brush caught on fire," said Martin.

"It ended up being a non-injury accident," said Martin.

Neither drugs or alcohol played a factor in the colllision, but Martin said Garcia was an unlicensed driver.