CHP searching for driver in fatal Salinas hit-and-run crash

(KRON) — The California Highway Patrol is searching for a driver who caused a deadly hit-and-run collision in Salinas. A 67-year-old Salinas woman was killed in the crash on Wednesday at 6:17 a.m.

CHP officers are now asking for the public’s help to identify the driver of a white 2001 GMC Yukon.

The victim was a passenger in a Nissan Altima driven by Ismael Bernal, 68, of Salinas, according to the CHP. Bernal attempted to turn his Nissan left from Alisal Road into an agricultural field.

“A white GMC Yukon was also driving southbound on Alisal Road and approaching the rear of the Nissan. The GMC moved into the northbound lane and attempted to pass the Nissan. At this time, the Nissan initiated a left turn in front of the GMC,” CHP Officer Saul Perez wrote.

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The GMC Yukon was driving the wrong-way when it slammed into the Nissan, sending the smaller vehicle into a ditch. The Nissan’s passenger died at the scene while Bernal was rushed to a trauma center to be treated for major head injuries.

The driver of the GMC fled the scene and has not been identified, Perez said. “We are asking for the community’s help with this fatal hit and run crash,” he wrote.

If you were in the area and have information on the identity of the hit-and-run driver, call the California Highway Patrol Monterey Area Office at 831-796-2160.

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