Minor Arrested After Car Crash at Famous Deli

Police arrested a Novato teen suspected of drunken driving after he failed to yield to California Highway Patrol and crashed into i on Lincoln Avenue Wednesday afternoon, CHP spokesman Chris Rardin said.

At approximately 1 p.m., officers received reports of a reckless driver heading southbound on Highway 101. After an officer attempted to stop the driver, he took the Lincoln exit and accelerated to 40 mph until he crashed into the corner of Famous Deli shortly after, Rardin said.

The suspect, who was celebrating his 17th birthday, attempted to flee, but was arrested and taken to Marin General Hospital for treatment.

He is charged with a felony DUI, evading a police officer and possession of a stolen vehicle, Rardin said. His name will not be released since he is a minor.

The corner of the deli was caved in due to the collision. Famous Deli employee Indeejit Cheema was working with his cousin when the car came crashing through.

There were three employees inside when the accident occurred, Cheema said.

His cousin, who was at the register,  fell face down from the impact and his feet were jammed under the car, Cheema said.

“I was so scared,” Cheema said, “but I just dug him out.”

Cheema’s cousin had his elbow bandaged and did not receive additional medical attention at the time following the incident.

A similar incident happened about two years ago where a driver crashed into the back of the building, Famous Deli owner Chuck Warfield said. The store had to be closed for three months for repairs.

There was also an earlier incident in the early ‘90s that resulted in a death, according to Warfield.

“This seems to be a favorite spot,” he said.