October 17, 2026 – Merced CHP officials report that on Thursday, October 15, 2026, at approximately 11:36 p.m., the Merced Communications Center (MCC) received reports of a pedestrian lying in the slow lane of southbound State Route 99, south of Cleveland Avenue.

California Highway Patrol (CHP) Officers responded to the scene and located a female pedestrian who was deceased on the right shoulder.

A preliminary investigation indicates:

The female pedestrian was believed to be in the traffic lanes of State Route 99 southbound, south of Cleveland Avenue when she was struck by an unknown vehicle. The driver of the unknown vehicle then fled the scene without stopping to render aid to the pedestrian and failed to contact emergency personnel.

This crash is still under investigation, and it is unknown if alcohol or drugs were a factor in this crash.

CHP Madera Area is asking for the public’s help with any information that would assist in this investigation.

For further information, contact the Madera Area Public Information Officer at (559) 507-8120.

The mission of CHP is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security.

Source: Merced CHP