Release Date/Time: 4/17/2015 9:52 AM
Incident: Hit and Run with Injury
Report #: 15-040773
Date: Thursday, 4/16/2015
Time: 9:10 PM
Location: E. Laurel & St. Edwards
A Salinas Police Officer on routine patrol was driving on E. Laurel Drive near St. Edwards when he came upon a pedestrian in the roadway surrounded by passing motorists. The victim, a 22-year-old Hispanic Male, was in the #2 eastbound lane and had been walking northbound trying to cross E. Laurel. Witnesses told the officer that the victim was struck by a Jeep Cherokee, which continued eastbound. The victim was transported to Natividad Medical Center Truama Unit where it was learned he had bleeding to his brain, a broken left leg, and a collapsed lung. He is currently in the Intensive Care Unit in serious but stable condition.
About half an hour later, the Cherokee returned to the scene and the driver contacted officers. The 39-year-old Hispanic driver said he was driving on E. Laurel when he noticed in his rear view mirror that several vehicles were stopping. He said he was unaware he struck the victim until arriving home and noticing his right front headlight was broken. Overall the Jeep sustained minor damage. The driver said his wife has a heart condition, so he had to calm her down before returning to the collision scene. He did not appear to be under the influence, was valid to drive, had insurance, and voluntarily gave a blood sample. His vehicle was impounded for evidence. This case will be forwarded to Traffic Unit for additional follow up. The Traffic Unit will examine the case to determine if there is sufficient evidence to warrant an arrest of the driver.
Release Authorized by: Gerard D Ross
Telephone: (831) 758-7975