Visalia, CA – The Visalia Police Department confirmed the arrest of 31-year-old Jorge Torres in connection with a fatal hit-and-run that occurred on Monday night, August 12, 2024, according to KSEE.
The collision took place around 10:30 PM at the intersection of Caldwell Avenue and Ben Maddox Way. Officers responded to reports of a hit-and-run and found the pedestrian critically injured. Despite immediate efforts by first responders, the pedestrian was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators quickly located the suspect’s vehicle, which had been abandoned not far from the site of the collision, leading the Visalia PD Traffic Unit to identify Torres as the suspect. With the collaborative efforts of the Visalia PD Enforcement Unit, Narcotics Unit, and HOPE Unit, Torres was taken into custody on Wednesday afternoon without incident.
The identity of the pedestrian has not been released, as authorities are in the process of notifying the next of kin.
California Hit-and-Run Laws
California Law requires drivers involved in a collision to stop their vehicle, notify law enforcement, and exchange insurance information with others involved. Failure to do so, considered to be a “hit-and-run,” is a misdemeanor in cases of property damage and a felony when someone has been injured.
Pedestrian Fatalities and Wrongful Death Claims
Motorists bear an added responsibility, known as the “Duty of Care,” towards pedestrians due to their heightened vulnerability in car accidents, often leading to pedestrian fatalities.
For those who have lost someone in a vehicular fatality, a Wrongful Death claim, made with the help of an experienced personal injury attorney, can provide compensation to alleviate the financial strain of laying their loved one to rest.
If the at-fault driver evades legal consequences, compensation might still be accessible through a family member’s uninsured driver coverage. Seeking advice from a personal injury attorney can help ascertain the most suitable options in such circumstances.
