CALIFORNIA — A 64-year-old man died Friday night after being hit by a suspected drunk driver in Hilmar, California, who fled the scene.
The crash occurred around 11:30 p.m. near the intersection of Highway 165 and Third Street. Witnesses reported that a dark Chevrolet Silverado was traveling at high speed when it struck the man as he attempted to cross the road.
Emergency responders arrived quickly, but the victim was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have not released his identity.
About 20 minutes later, a California Highway Patrol officer located the suspect vehicle still on Highway 165. The driver, Angel Ortega, 40, was arrested on suspicion of murder, felony DUI, and felony hit-and-run. Ortega was reportedly under the influence of alcohol or drugs and was booked into the Merced County Jail.
Authorities continue to investigate the incident and urge drivers to practice caution on Highway 165, where the fatal collision occurred.
