Modesto, California – In the early hours of Sunday, a tragic accident in Modesto resulted in the death of a passenger and the subsequent arrest of a man.
Around 5:30 a.m. on Sunday, July 14th, officers from the Modesto Police Department responded to a severe accident in the 1400 block of West Hatch Road. According to the police report, two vehicles were involved in the incident: a Chevrolet Traverse and a parked Toyota Prius.
Daniel Zaragoza, a 37-year-old Modesto resident, was driving west on West Hatch Road. At some point, just west of Ustick Road, Zaragoza collided his Chevrolet Traverse with a Toyota Prius parked along West Hatch Road’s north curb. This crash resulted in the instant death of a passenger inside the Prius.
Police reported that Zaragoza attempted to flee the scene but was located shortly afterward in the vicinity of the incident. This action further compounded his legal situation, as he now faces multiple charges.
Zaragoza was arrested and faces several serious charges, including:
- Vehicular Homicide: The death of the passenger in the Prius has resulted in a homicide charge, a serious accusation that can carry a significant prison sentence.
- Hit and Run: Leaving the scene of the accident without providing assistance or information is a crime that increases the severity of penalties.
- Driving Under the Influence: Authorities suspect that Zaragoza was under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of the accident, which is a severe offense with significant legal consequences.
- Driving Without a License: Additionally, it was discovered that Zaragoza did not have a valid driver’s license, adding another charge to his record.
The police continue to investigate the details of the accident and have asked any witnesses to come forward with additional information.
The fatal accident in Modesto serves as a sobering reminder of the devastating consequences of recklessness and irresponsibility behind the wheel. The local community and the authorities must work together to promote safe and responsible driving and ensure the safety of all road users.
