Authorities Arrest Suspect Driver in Fatal Hit-and-Run Accident Near Merced

Home » Authorities Arrest Suspect Driver in Fatal Hit-and-Run Accident Near Merced
December 06, 2017
Edward Smith

Suspect Driver in Fatal Hit-and-Run Accident Near Merced Arrested

A young girl and her family were walking together in Merced during the afternoon hours of December 4, 2017. Unfortunately, this would be the last stroll one family member will take due to a tragic hit-and-run accident.

We would like to send our condolences to the family members of the little girl that lost her life in this senseless tragedy.

Accident Details

A mother was walking with her children eastbound along 18th Street near R Street at about 3:40 pm. When the family began to cross R Street, an oncoming Honda Accord allegedly ran a red light and collided with one of the family members, identified as a three-year-old girl. The driver allegedly left the area following the crash and sadly, left the young girl to suffer from her traumatic injuries without rendering aid or waiting on the arrival of officials.

Young Girl Succumbs to Injuries During Hospitalization 

Emergency responders were dispatched to the scene of the hit-and-run accident. When emergency crews arrived and evaluated the nature of the young girl’s injuries, she was airlifted to the Valley Children’s Hospital in Madera for treatment. The girl, sadly, passed away during hospitalization due to the severity of her injuries.

Police Arrest Suspect Driver

The Merced Police Department released a video of the suspect vehicle involved in the accident on December 5, 2017. According to officials, the suspect driver was detained that same day and booked into the Merced County Jail on suspicion of vehicular manslaughter and hit-and-run. The driver, identified as 22-year-old Issac Maldonado of Livingston, may face more charges as the investigation continues.

Hit-and-Run Accidents

Motorists are obligated to remain at the scene of an accident to lend assistance to those who may be injured and/or until officials arrive to conduct a Traffic Collision Report. Drivers who fail to do so may be charged with a misdemeanor or even a felony hit-and-run depending on the extent of damages incurred. It is important to never lose hope if you or a loved one has been involved in a hit-and-run accident. Contacting an experienced Merced car accident lawyer is critical in such cases as there may be coverage available for your losses if you are a policyholder of Uninsured/Under-insured Motorist Coverage (UM).

The Grieving Process: Losing a Child

The most devastating experience any parent may experience is the loss of a child. After all, no parent should ever have to bury their own child as children are not supposed to pass on before their parents. When this type of incident occurs, it is important to keep in mind that the grieving process following such tragedies differs from person-to-person. Always remember that all feelings are valid during this process and it is never good to bundle your emotions inside. Having a support group of friends and family is essential when coping with the grief of a child. Maintaining yourself through a balanced diet and exercise routine is also crucial as mentally healthy people usually find it easier to handle their times of emotional distress and severe loss.

Related Articles by Merced Wrongful Death Lawyer, Ed Smith:

Experienced & Compassionate Wrongful Death Lawyer in Merced

I’m Ed Smith, a Merced wrongful death lawyer. Hit-and-run accidents involving pedestrians tend to result in traumatic, life-changing consequences. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, please contact me at (209) 227-1931 for free, friendly advice. Or, you may also connect with me toll-free at (800) 404-5400.

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Content Source: http://www.modbee.com/news/local/crime/article188322529.html

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