Selma, CA — According to KSEE, the Selma Police Department has confirmed that Robert Leeper, a resident of Selma, lost his life after being struck by a vehicle in a fatal pedestrian hit-and-run on September 20, 2024.
The accident occurred around 8:15 PM at the intersection of Floral Avenue and Wright Street. Officers arriving at the scene found Leeper suffering from wounds consistent with being hit by a car. Despite efforts to save him, Leeper later passed away from his injuries.
As authorities worked through the scene of the crash, they gathered information that led them to the suspected driver, who had fled the area. Roberto Ramos, a 39-year-old Selma resident, was located and arrested. Police determined that Ramos was driving under the influence at the time of the collision.
Ramos, who is an employee of the City of Selma’s Public Works Department, was not on duty at the time of the crash and was driving his personal vehicle. He is now facing several serious charges, including gross vehicular manslaughter, hit-and-run resulting in death, and DUI.
Pedestrian Fatalities and Wrongful Death Claims
Drivers have a specific “Duty of Care” towards pedestrians, who are particularly vulnerable in traffic accidents. This responsibility includes being vigilant for pedestrians near the roadway and, if a fatal collision occurs, staying with the victim, alerting emergency responders, and cooperating with authorities investigating the crash.
For those who lose a loved one in a pedestrian accident, filing a Wrongful Death claim with the assistance of an experienced attorney can provide compensation for medical bills, funeral costs, and other related damages.
If the at-fault driver avoids legal consequences, compensation might still be available through a family member’s uninsured driver coverage. Consulting with a personal injury attorney can help determine the best options in such cases.
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.
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.
