Merced CHP Calls on Public for Help in Identifying Fatal Hit-and-Run Suspect
Originally published by CHP – Merced:
On October 15, 2023, at approximately 6:23 am, Merced Communications Center (MCC) advised the California Highway Patrol (CHP) Merced Area of a traffic crash involving multiple vehicles and a pedestrian on southbound State Route 99, south of Plainsburg Road. CHP officers arrived on scene and upon initial investigation, it was determined that the pedestrian had sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased.
During the course of the investigation, it was determined that the adult male from Terra Bella, California, was driving a 2002 Honda Civic, in the #2 lane of northbound State Route 99, south of Plainsburg Road and was involved in a property damage traffic crash with a big rig. Following this initial collision, the male adult exited the Honda, ran across the northbound lanes, the center median, and onto the southbound lanes where he was struck by several vehicles. The male driver of the Honda succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene.
A vehicle of interest has been identified as a possible suspect vehicle to the hit and run. The vehicle is a 2006-2008 Hyundai Sonata, dark metallic blue in color. The vehicle should have significant front right-side damage.
This crash is still under investigation, anyone with information regarding this crash should contact the CHP Merced Area Office at 209-356-6600. For Media inquiries contact Public Information Officer Eric C. Zuniga at, 209-356-6608.
