A woman was hospitalized after being shot during an apparent road rage incident on a San Diego freeway, and authorities arrested the suspected gunman less than 24 hours later. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) said the shooting happened during a lane dispute and involved a vehicle carrying two women and a young child.
Road rage incidents can quickly turn dangerous, especially on busy highways where drivers have little room to react. Authorities say this latest case on a San Diego freeway escalated into gunfire, leaving one woman injured and prompting a major investigation that led to a suspect’s arrest the following day.
Incident
The shooting occurred shortly after 8:30 p.m. on Thursday on the transition ramp connecting eastbound State Route 52 to southbound Interstate 15.
According to CHP Officer Jared Grieshaber, the incident began when the driver of a black 2025 Ford Explorer became involved in a lane dispute with the driver of a gray Volkswagen Passat.
Investigators said the disagreement escalated before shots were fired into the Ford Explorer.
Victims
The Ford Explorer was occupied by two adult women and a 7-year-old child at the time of the shooting.
Authorities said the driver of the Explorer was struck by gunfire and transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. Officials have not released details about her condition.
The second woman and the child were not reported to have suffered physical injuries.
Investigation
After the shooting, the driver of the Volkswagen Passat fled the scene before law enforcement officers arrived.
CHP detectives from the Border Division Major Crimes Unit launched an investigation to identify the suspect and gather evidence related to the case.
The investigation continued through Friday before authorities made an arrest.
Arrest
On Friday, CHP detectives arrested 27-year-old Zian Wayne Aldrich of Coalinga, California.
According to investigators, Aldrich was booked into the San Diego Central Jail on suspicion of:
| Charge | Details |
|---|---|
| Attempted murder | Three counts |
| Weapons offenses | Two related charges |
Authorities said he is being held without bail.
His arraignment is scheduled for Tuesday.
Statement
CHP Assistant Chief Andrew McCulloch said acts of violence on California freeways place innocent motorists at risk.
He stated that investigators acted quickly to identify and arrest the suspect and emphasized the agency’s commitment to holding individuals accountable when they endanger public safety.
Safety
Following the incident, the California Highway Patrol reminded drivers to avoid engaging with aggressive motorists.
Officials recommend that drivers:
- Create distance from aggressive vehicles whenever possible.
- Avoid eye contact or confrontations.
- Call 911 as soon as it is safe to do so.
- If possible, remember details such as the vehicle description, license plate number, travel direction, and location.
These steps can help officers respond more effectively while reducing the risk of further escalation.
Appeal
The CHP continues to investigate the shooting and is asking anyone with information about the incident to come forward.
Witnesses or anyone with relevant information can contact the CHP Border Division Major Crimes Unit at 858-944-6300.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to determine all of the circumstances surrounding the freeway shooting. While one woman remains hospitalized, law enforcement officials say a suspect has been taken into custody and the case will continue through the court process. The incident also serves as a reminder of the importance of avoiding confrontations with aggressive drivers and reporting dangerous behavior to authorities.
FAQs
Where did the shooting happen?
On the SR-52 to I-15 transition ramp in San Diego.
How many people were in the SUV?
Two women and a 7-year-old child.
Who was arrested?
Zian Wayne Aldrich, 27, of Coalinga.
What charges does he face?
Three attempted murder and two weapons charges.
Who is investigating the case?
The California Highway Patrol.
