Five people were transported to area hospitals after a head-on collision on Graves Lane Sunday evening -- three by rescue helicopter to Washoe Medical Center and two by ambulance to Carson Tahoe Hospital.
Two of those transported by helicopter were youths about 12 years old with head injuries, according to authorities. Their identities were not released.
A suspect -- who was also transported by helicopter -- was taken into custody and charged with hit and run with injury. Theodore Sanchez, 28, left the scene on foot, hopped a fence, and was apprehended by a citizen, according to Carson City Sheriff's Department Sgt. Clay Wall. Sanchez made it about three blocks before being stopped. After he complained of pain, another rescue helicopter was called in.
"He is suspected of drug activity because of items found on his person," Wall said.
The accident occurred about 5:20 p.m. on the curve near the Carson City Airport --Ejust north of the intersection with Nye Lane.
The two juveniles and their mother were heading west in a Dodge van when the eastbound suspect veered into their lane in an SUV, according to the sheriff's department.
Rescue crews from Carson City Fire Department's Station 2 arrived less than two minutes after they received the call, according to acting Capt. Matthew Donnelly. In all, two ambulances, one command vehicle, one engine and two helicopters responded form the department. One helicopter made a complete lap to Washoe Medical Center, returning to pick up another patient. Both Careflight and Caltrans aircraft were involved.
An investigation into the incident is ongoing.