San Pedro: On Monday, March 19, 2001, at approximately 9:30 p.m., Harbor Area officers were Southbound on the Harbor Freeway near the Pacific Coast Highway off-ramp when they observed a lone male suspect in a 1989 Honda Accord, traveling Southbound at a high rate of speed (violation of 22350 VC).

Officers followed the suspect, and observed him exit the freeway at Gaffey Street. The officers attempted to conduct a traffic stop, but the suspect sped away, Southbound on Gaffey. The officers then pursued the suspect.

The suspect traveled Westbound on 3^rd Street at a high rate of speed and made a right turn on to Gaffey Street, failing to stop for a posted stop sign. The suspect’s vehicle then struck a 1999 Pontiac Firebird, driven by another motorist, who was traveling Northbound on Gaffey Street. The Firebird then struck a 1993 Toyota, driven by a third motorist who was also Northbound in lane #1.

The pursuit terminated at the scene of the collision when the suspect was ejected from his vehicle striking his head on the pavement. He was later identified as Peter Wood Jr., 32 years old, and a resident of Los Angeles.

Wood was taken to Harbor General Hospital and is listed in serious but stable condition with head injuries and internal bleeding. Charges are pending against him.

The other two motorists sustained minor injuries and were released at the scene.

South Traffic Division Detectives are handling the follow-up investigation. Anyone with information is urged to call, 323-290-6063.

This Press Release was prepared by Officer La Donna Cissell, Media Relations Section, 213-485-3586.