Hit and Run Suspect Killed by Hit and Run Driver

Hit and Run Suspect Killed by Hit and Run Driver

The California Highway Patrol is searching for a big rig driver suspected of hitting and killing a man walking in the traffic lanes on the freeway. The victim was also suspected of being involved in a hit and run prior.

The full release can be seen below:

On Tuesday, January 11, 2022, at approximately 2:07 am, Bakersfield Area units responded to northbound SR-99, north of Merle Haggard Drive, for a report of a hit and run traffic crash.

Preliminary investigation reveals Party #1 (unidentified male) was driving a 2000 Plymouth Voyager on northbound SR-99, north of Merle Haggard Drive, and was involved in a crash with two additional vehicles.  Party #1 fled the scene, continuing northbound in the Plymouth.  On northbound SR-99, south of Lerdo Highway, Party #1 was involved in another crash with a commercial tractor/semi-trailer combination.  The Plymouth became disabled blocking northbound lanes.  Party #1 fled the scene on foot, walking north in the center median.  Party #1 subsequently crossed the center median barrier wall and began walking in a westerly direction across the southbound lanes of SR-99.  Party #1 was then struck by a passing tractor/semi-trailer combination (Party #2).  As a result of this crash, Party #1 sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene.  Party #2 continued southbound on SR-99 without stopping.

Alcohol/drugs are suspected to be a factor in this crash.  There were no roadway closures resulting from this incident.

This crash is still under investigation.  Anyone with information regarding this crash is encouraged to contact the California Highway Patrol, Bakersfield Area, at (661) 396-6600.

Party #1’s identity to be released by the Kern County Coroner’s Office.