[09-05-2025] Merced County, CA – 64-Year-Old Man Killed by Suspected Drunk Driver on Southbound Highway 165 in Hilmar

A 64-year-old man was killed after being struck by a suspected drunk driver on southbound Highway 165 near Third Street in Hilmar, Merced County, late Friday night, September 5, 2025.

According to the California Highway Patrol, officers received reports just after 11:20 p.m. that a pedestrian had been hit by a dark-colored Chevrolet Silverado traveling at a high rate of speed.

Emergency personnel pronounced the victim deceased at the scene. His identity has not yet been released.

CHP officers reported that the driver, later identified as 40-year-old Angel O. of Los Banos, continued driving after striking the man. Angel was stopped around 11:40 p.m. by a CHP sergeant on Highway 165 at Henry Miller Avenue.

Investigators said that the driver was driving southbound at a high rate of speed when the victim, walking in the southbound lane, attempted to cross the lanes. The front of the truck struck the pedestrian, throwing him into the air before he landed on the east shoulder of the highway.

Authorities determined that the driver was under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs and booked him on charges of murder, felony DUI, and felony hit-and-run.

Authorities continue to investigate the incident.

Contact Our DUI Accident Victim Lawyers in Merced County, CA

Pedestrian accidents involving impaired drivers can result in fatal or life-altering injuries. These incidents may leave families facing emotional, physical, and financial challenges. Learning about possible legal options may help you understand potential next steps following such a tragedy.

DUI accident victim lawyers in Merced County can help you explore your legal options after a pedestrian collision. Legal guidance may include reviewing official reports, assisting with insurance communications, and explaining the process of pursuing compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and other damages. Consulting a lawyer early may help families better navigate the aftermath of a serious pedestrian accident.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a speeding-related accident, call us at (888) 488-1391 or fill out our “Do I Have a Case?” form for a free initial consultation.

What To Do After A DUI Accident In Merced County, CA

Being involved in or witnessing a pedestrian accident involving an impaired driver can be overwhelming, especially when injuries or fatalities occur. Taking certain steps afterward may help protect your rights and preserve important evidence.

1. Call 911 And Seek Medical Attention
   Contact emergency services immediately to ensure anyone injured receives prompt medical care. Even seemingly minor injuries should be evaluated to rule out hidden complications.
2. Document The Scene And Injuries
   If it is safe, take photographs of the location, vehicles involved, and any visible injuries. This documentation can be important for insurance and legal purposes.
3. Gather Witness Information
   Collect names and contact details of anyone who witnessed the accident. Their statements may help clarify the circumstances surrounding the incident.
4. Consult Accident Lawyers
   Accident attorneys in Merced County can provide guidance on possible legal options, assist with insurance communications, and help ensure that important evidence is preserved. Early legal guidance may help protect your rights and support proper handling of the case.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

DUI Accident Statistics

Alcohol-impaired driving remains a leading cause of fatal and serious injury crashes on California roads. In 2023, 1,355 people were killed in alcohol-related crashes, representing a 4.5 percent decrease from 2022, but nearly a 55 percent increase compared to 2014.

The Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) implements programs based on the Safe System framework, which recognizes that crashes will occur but seeks to prevent them from being deadly or causing serious injuries. This approach allows the OTS to address all aspects of crash risk and apply multiple layers of protection to help ensure that all road users can travel safely on California roads.