San Diego Freeway Road Rage Shooting: Woman Hospitalized, Suspect in Custody

• A woman was shot while driving on the SR-52 to I-15 transition ramp in San Diego during a road rage incident.
• The suspect, Zian Wayne Aldrich, 27, of Coalinga, was arrested on three counts of attempted murder and weapons charges.
• The victim, a woman, was hospitalized; a 7-year-old child was also in the vehicle but not injured.
• CHP urges drivers to avoid confrontation and call 911 if encountering aggressive driving.

Road Rage Shooting on San Diego Freeway

A San Diego woman is recovering after being shot during a road rage incident on a busy freeway ramp. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) arrested the alleged shooter a day later.

The Incident

Shortly after 8:30 p.m. on Thursday, a black 2025 Ford Explorer was on the transition ramp from eastbound state Route 52 to southbound Interstate 15. The driver became involved in a lane dispute with a gray Volkswagen Passat. According to CHP Officer Jared Grieshaber, the Passat’s driver fired into the Explorer, which was occupied by two adult women and a 7-year-old child. The driver of the Explorer was struck and taken to a hospital. The Passat fled. The incident occurred around 8:35 p.m. in the Kearny Mesa area, according to CHP officials.

Arrest and Charges

On Friday, CHP detectives arrested Zian Wayne Aldrich, 27, of Coalinga, California. He was booked on suspicion of three counts of attempted murder and two weapons-related charges. He is being held without bail at San Diego Central Jail, with arraignment scheduled for Tuesday.

Local California Context

This incident highlights ongoing concerns about road rage and freeway violence in San Diego County. The CHP’s Border Division Major Crimes Unit handled the investigation, emphasizing the seriousness of such crimes in the region. CHP Assistant Chief Andrew McCulloch stated, "Violence on our freeways endangers innocent lives and will not be tolerated. Our detectives acted quickly to identify and arrest the suspect, and we remain committed to holding those who endanger the traveling public accountable."

Background

Road rage shootings on California freeways have been a growing concern. In recent years, the CHP has reported multiple incidents involving firearms, often resulting in injuries or fatalities. This case underscores the need for drivers to remain calm and avoid escalation.

Conclusion

The CHP reminds motorists to never engage with aggressive drivers. If confronted, create distance, avoid eye contact, and call 911 when safe. If possible, note the suspect vehicle's description, license plate, direction of travel and location. Anyone with information about this case can contact the CHP Border Division Major Crimes Unit at 858-944-6300.

Sources and Materials:

• timesofsandiego