Minivan crashes into La Mesa home; homeowner says ‘might as well laugh’

Oct. 18--A minivan driven by a man suspected of being under the influence of drugs slammed into a La Mesa house late Wednesday night, startling the family inside and sending debris flying across the room.

The Chrysler Pacifica ran into the building on Veemac Drive near Sinjon Circle around 10:45 p.m., said La Mesa police Lt. Brian Stoney.

The driver of the vehicle was injured in the crash and was combative with officers, Stoney said.

He was believed to be under the influence of drugs and was taken to the hospital to be treated for his injuries. Officers also got a warrant to have a blood sample taken, he said.

An engineer inspected the home, which sustained structural damage, the lieutenant said. No one inside the house was hurt.

Homeowner Ed Rieth was asleep and his wife was watching TV when the vehicle hit the wall, sending the TV and debris across the room, according to NBC 7 San Diego.

Rieth, who has lived in the home since 1996, told San Diego News Video that he was trying to have a good attitude about the crash. "They say you can either. laugh about it or cry, so might as well laugh. We can't do anything about it," he said, "The insurance company's going to love us."

Twitter: @karenkucher

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karen.kucher@sduniontribune.com

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