CHP: Hwy 59 in Merced Co. closed after driver crashes stolen truck

MERCED COUNTY, Calif. (KFSN) -- Highway 59 in Merced County is closed down after two hit-and-run accidents left one person dead.

The first collision happened Thursday morning at Highway 59 and Cone Avenue. The California Highway Patrol says a 19-year-old man got into a hit-and-run crash and carjacked a person driving a box truck.

Minutes later, the box truck turned in front of and collided with a semi-truck at Highway 59 and McNamara Avenue. The semi-truck burst into flames, but the driver was able to escape with minor injuries.

But officials say the person driving the stolen box truck was killed in the crash. That person has not been identified.

Officers say Highway 59 will be closed at McNamara for several more hours as crews work to clear the scene.