Merced CHP Opens Investigation into Motorcycle Hit-and-Run
Originally published by the California Highway Patrol – Merced:
“Le Grand, California. – On January 10, 2024, at 5:25 pm, Merced Communications Center (MCC) was notified by a witness that a pedestrian had been hit by an off-road motorcycle in the area of Washington Avenue, east of Jefferson Street in the city of Le Grand, California. The adult male, later identified as Jose Vera Gallardo (43, Le Grand, California) appeared to have sustained moderate injuries as result of being hit by a motorcycle. Preliminary investigation indicates that Mr. Vera Gallardo was using a leaf blower to clear the roadway and was standing in the roadway at the time of the traffic crash. A motorcycle was traveling westbound on Washington Avenue, east of Jefferson Street at a high rate of speed approaching the pedestrian. The motorcycle collided with Mr. Vera Gallardo, causing him fall to the roadway. The motorcycle continued to travel westbound on Washington Avenue at a high rate of speed. Witnesses described the motorcycle as a black or green off-road motorcycle. The rider was described as a slender built male. No other description of the motorcycle or its rider was provided.
This crash is under investigation and the California Highway Patrol Merced Area Office is requesting any witnesses to the incident or anyone with information on the identity of the motorcycle rider to please contact Officer Bautista at (209) 356-6600, or after hours at (209) 356-2900. For media inquiries, contact Public Information Officer Eric C. Zuniga at (209) 356-6608.”
