Man killed in hit-and-run crash involving suspected drunk driver in Merced County

FRESNO, Calif. -- A 64-year-old man was struck and killed late Friday night in Hilmar by a suspected drunk driver who left the scene.

Authorities say the collision happened shortly before 11:30 p.m. near Highway 165 and Third Street. Officers say witnesses reported seeing a dark-colored Chevrolet Silverado traveling fast and hitting the man at a high rate of speed.

Emergency responders arrived shortly after the crash and pronounced the man dead at the scene. His identity has not been released.

About 20 minutes after the crash, a California Highway Patrol officer located the suspect vehicle still traveling on Highway 165. The driver, identified as 40-year-old Angel Ortega, was pulled over and later arrested.

Officers say Ortega was determined to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs. He was arrested on suspicion of murder, felony DUI, and felony hit-and-run, and was booked into the Merced County Jail.

Investigators say the victim was attempting to cross the highway when Ortega hit him.