Suspect with sledgehammer detained after three San Diego businesses burglarized

SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) -- An active investigation is underway and a suspect is in custody after three businesses in the north San Diego area were targeted in a series of burglaries early Thursday morning, authorities said.

According to the San Diego Police Department, the burglaries took place before 5 a.m. with the suspect using a sledgehammer to break into the businesses. The locations targeted were:

• Ototo Susuhi Co. (located at 16480 Paseo Del Sur)
• Board & Brews Specialty Sandwiches (located at 16480 Paseo Del Sur)
• Ramon's Taco Shop (located at 3951 Governor Dr.)

Witnesses who observed suspicious activity provided a description of the vehicle involved in the crimes. Acting on this information, law enforcement officials were able to locate a car matching the description on a nearby freeway.

For reasons unknown at this time, police said the suspect's vehicle ultimately spun out at the 56 freeway and Camino Del Sur. The driver was apprehended shortly thereafter. Authorities discovered a sledgehammer inside the car, which further linked the suspect to the burglaries.

At this time, the suspect is being detained, but no further details about the individual have been released. Authorities are working to determine if this case is connected to other recent burglary incidents in the area.

While the SDPD is continuing to investigate, they have yet to confirm whether this individual is connected to a larger series of similar crimes.

As the investigation progresses, SDPD encourages anyone with additional information to come forward to assist with the ongoing case. Tips can be provided by calling Crime Stoppers at (619) 235-8477.

This is a developing story. More information will be provided as new details emerge.