San Diego

A 17-year-old youth was shot in the groin by a California Highway Patrol officer early Monday after the youth pulled a gun on the officer during a traffic stop, the CHP reported.

The youth, who was not identified because of his age, was being held late Monday at UC San Diego Medical Center on suspicion of auto theft, possession of a controlled substance, two weapons charges and assault with a deadly weapon on a peace officer, Sgt. John McDonald said.

According to McDonald, the incident occurred shortly before 1 a.m. when two officers spotted the youth riding a motorcycle at high speed on California 163 northbound near the Friars Road westbound exit.

When the officers pulled him over and went to radio for a computer check on the motorcycle’s license plate, the youth attempted to flee on foot, McDonald said. When officer Charles Eglin pursued him, he allegedly pulled a handgun from a shoulder holster under his coat.

Eglin, in turn, drew his service revolver and twice ordered the youth to drop his gun, McDonald said. When the boy failed to do so, Eglin shot him once in the groin, incapacitating and arresting him.

McDonald said the controlled substance found on the boy had not been analyzed. He said the motorcycle was determined to have been stolen.

McDonald said the youth was treated and released from Mercy Hospital. He was refused admission to Juvenile Hall because of his injuries and was taken to UCSD Medical Center, where he was being held, McDonald said.