San Joaquin County, CA – In the early hours of Wednesday, April 16, 2026, a hit-and-run collision resulted in Christopher George Funk Jr., 44, of Stockton, losing his life, according to ABC10.
The California Highway Patrol reports that the accident took place around 4:35 AM on northbound Interstate 5 near the French Camp Road off-ramp.
Authorities said Funk Jr. was pushing a shopping cart on the freeway when he was struck by an unknown vehicle. He appeared to have been struck by multiple vehicles following the initial collision and was pronounced dead at the scene by emergency personnel.
A shopping cart and a Target shopping basket were found obstructing multiple lanes of the freeway in connection with the incident. An unknown sedan was also observed on the right shoulder with an occupant appearing ready to enter the travel lanes.
A traffic break was initiated on the northbound approach as fire department and emergency personnel responded to the scene, bringing all lanes to a stop. The San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office was notified and responded.
Caltrans was contacted and coordinated with authorities during the closure. A SigAlert was issued for northbound Interstate 5 at the French Camp Road off-ramp while investigators processed the scene.
The San Joaquin County Medical Examiner formally identified Funk Jr. following the crash.
The investigation remains ongoing.
Pedestrian Fatalities and Wrongful Death Claims
Drivers have a duty of care towards pedestrians, which includes being vigilant for those travelling by foot and, if a 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.
Should the at-fault driver evade authorities, 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 Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, contact a California pedestrian accident lawyer for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.
