Merced County, CA – On the morning of Friday, September 19, 2025, a bicyclist died after a head-on hit-and-run crash, according to KSEE.
The California Highway Patrol reports that the accident took place around 6:20 AM on Santa Fe Drive west of Shaffer Road, near the community of Winton.
Officers arrived to find an unresponsive man lying on the roadway next to a damaged bicycle. Investigators determined that the man, believed to be between 40 and 50 years old, had been riding westbound in the eastbound lane of Santa Fe Drive. At the same time, an unidentified vehicle traveled eastbound on the same stretch of roadway.
CHP investigators stated that the front of the vehicle struck the front wheel of the bicycle in a head-on collision. The impact threw the rider to the ground, causing fatal injuries. Emergency responders confirmed his death at the scene. Authorities have not released his identity pending confirmation and notification of family.
The driver did not stop to provide aid and continued eastbound toward Shaffer Road. CHP investigators are working to identify the vehicle and its driver.
The roadway remained partially closed during the investigation, and officers gathered evidence from the scene, including debris left behind by the vehicle. Authorities have not determined the exact time of impact and continue to seek information from the public.
The California Highway Patrol urges anyone with knowledge of the crash or the vehicle involved to contact their Merced office as the investigation continues.
Bicycle Fatalities and Wrongful Death Claims
Drivers have a Duty of Care towards bicyclists, who are particularly vulnerable in traffic accidents. This responsibility includes being vigilant for bicyclists with whom they share the road 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 bicycle 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.
Should the at-fault driver avoid 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.
Merced Wrongful Death Lawyer
If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, contact a Merced Wrongful Death Lawyer for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.
