Madera woman arrested in deadly hit-and-run crash that killed a 10-year-old girl

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Investigators are gathering new evidence against a second suspect who they say played a major role in a hit and run crash which killed a young girl and hurt two others.

Scattered debris and personal belongings like a rear view mirror and a CD still surround the small memorial on Avenue 8. The California Highway Patrol says the crash killed 10-year-old Dayanna Michelle Villa-Berdejo.

Investigators say Denise Zuniga was the hit-and-run driver who caused her death.

"It breaks peoples heart to know what someone had done something to people's family and is trying to get out of the consequences," said officer Mark Cosentino.

Cosentino says Pedro Diaz and his two daughters were in a Chevy Impala on Road 25 on Sunday evening exactly when Denise Zuniga who was in a Dodge Durango ran through the intersection on Avenue 8.

"It looks like Mrs. Zuniga failed to stop at the stop sign and broadsided the Impala," said Cosentino.

CHP says the young girl died at the crash site. Her father had major injuries and her six-year-old sister was also hurt. Officers say Jose Magdelano was the accomplice who helped Zuniga escape the area.

Cosentino explained, "She was being followed by a male in another vehicle and he assisted her in leaving the leaving the scene and they were both arrested later that night."

CHP believes if Zuniga stayed put she wouldn't be facing so much jail time. Zuniga is facing hit-and-run and vehicular manslaughter charges.