Monterey County, California — The California Highway Patrol (CHP) is conducting a thorough investigation into a tragic hit-and-run incident in Monterey County that resulted in the death of a woman on the morning of Wednesday, May 22.
The accident was reported around 6:17 a.m. and involved two vehicles on Alisal Road, north of Hartnell Road. According to the CHP report, a Nissan Altima, driven by a 68-year-old man from Salinas, was heading south on Alisal Road and began to slow down to make a left turn into a farm field. In the passenger seat was a 67-year-old woman, also from Salinas.
A 2001 white GMC Yukon, also heading south on Alisal Road, approached the rear of the Nissan. The GMC moved into the northbound lane intending to overtake the Nissan, according to the CHP. Just then, the Nissan started its left turn, crossing into the path of the GMC. The driver of the GMC attempted to break but was unable to avoid the collision, striking the rear left side of the Nissan.
The Nissan ended up in a ditch east of the road, while the GMC came to a stop facing the opposite direction in the southbound lane. The driver of the Nissan was transported to Natividad Medical Center with severe head injuries. Unfortunately, the passenger died at the scene.
The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office identified the deceased woman as Maria Elena Chavez de Chavez. The driver of the GMC, who fled the scene before the CHP arrived, was identified as Adolfo Rosales Diaz, a 64-year-old resident of Salinas.
Six hours after the accident, Adolfo Rosales Diaz was arrested a couple of miles from the crash site. He was charged with hit-and-run resulting in serious injuries. Authorities have yet to determine if alcohol or drugs were contributing factors in the accident.
The California Highway Patrol continues to investigate the incident to clarify all details. This tragic accident highlights the importance of responsibility and caution while driving. The Salinas community deeply mourns the loss of Maria Elena Chavez de Chavez and hopes for justice in this case.
This unfortunate event underscores the need to adhere to traffic laws and always be aware of other drivers on the road. The CHP urges all drivers to maintain a safe speed and be attentive to traffic signals to prevent future accidents.
In memory of Maria Elena Chavez de Chavez, it is crucial to promote responsible and safe driving, remembering that road safety is everyone’s responsibility.
