Modesto Man Arrested After Fatal DUI Hit-and-Run in Salida

A fatal DUI hit-and-run crash occurred early Thursday morning in Salida, California, when 20-year-old Luis Mercado-Ulloa allegedly ran a stop sign at the intersection of Covert and Toomes roads, striking a Toyota driven by 67-year-old Victor Martinez Gonzalez. Gonzalez was pronounced dead at the scene after his car ended up in a field following the collision. Mercado-Ulloa fled the scene but was found about a mile away and arrested on charges of felony DUI, hit-and-run, and vehicular manslaughter. The California Highway Patrol confirmed Mercado-Ulloa was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash. This incident highlights California's high rate of deadly hit-and-run crashes, with experts emphasizing the importance of thorough investigations to protect victims' rights. CHP officials remind drivers that remaining at the scene and contacting emergency services is legally required and critical for helping victims.