Merced, CA: Man Struck and Injured by Hit-and-Run Motorist on 16th Street
Merced Crash on 16th Street near O street Seriously Injures Pedestrian

Merced, California (April 14, 2021) –A man sustained serious injuries after being struck by an alleged hit-and-run driver, 26-year-old Christian Cortez, Monday morning in Merced.
Officials responded to the major injury pedestrian crash site at approximately 3:30 a.m., on April 5, in the area of 16th and O streets.
A pedestrian was hit by a yellow Ford Mustang driven by Cortez at the intersection near the Auto Resources car lot for unknown reasons.
Major Injury Merced Crash
The unidentified victim, a 75-year-old man, sustained major injuries and was rushed to a Modesto area hospital for medication.
Christian reportedly fled the scene without rendering aid to the patient. Meanwhile, Authorities later arrested the suspect at home in Merced and booked him into the Merced County Jail for felony hit-and-run.
An investigation into the accident is underway. Anyone with information about this crash is urged to contact the police at 209-388-7753 or the Anonymous Tip Line at 209-385-4725.
Notable Pedestrian Accident Statistics According to the California Office of Traffic Safety:
- 893 pedestrians were killed, and more than 14,000 were injured on California roadways in 2018.
- California’s pedestrian fatality is almost 25% higher than the national average.
- California is among the leading states in pedestrian deaths.
Safety Tips for Pedestrians
- Make yourself visible to other road users by wearing bright colored clothes, reflector jackets, or using a flashlight when walking at night.
- Avoid distractions such as using your phone while on the streets.
- Cross streets on marked crosswalks and obey traffic lights.
- Always pay attention to your surroundings.
- Be predictable by observing all traffic rules and obeying signs and signals.
Were you or your loved one involved in a pedestrian accident? Contact Pacific Attorney Group for legal advice. Click to call: 866-803-6502.