[05-22-2024] Monterey County, CA – Passenger Killed, Driver Injured Following Two-Vehicle Collision Involving Hit-And-Run Driver on Alisal Road

A passenger was killed, and a driver was injured following a two-vehicle collision involving a hit-and-run driver in Monterey County on Wednesday morning, May 22, 2024.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the collision happened around 6:17 a.m. on Alisal Road north of Hartnell Road. 

Authorities stated that a Nissan Altima was traveling south on Alisal Road and slowing down to make a left turn into an agricultural field. Meanwhile, a white 2001 GMC Yukon was going in the same direction and approached the Nissan’s back. 

The GMC driver moved to the northbound lane and tried to pass the Nissan. At that time, Nissan started making a left turn into an agricultural field. The GMC driver then ended up colliding with the Nissan’s left rear. 

The Nissan vehicle came to rest at the east of the road, and the GMC driver fled the scene before the authorities arrived. 

Police said that the driver of Nissan, identified as a 68-year-old Salinas man, suffered serious head injuries and was transported to Natividad Medical Center. His 67-year-old passenger, identified as Maria Elena Chavez D., was pronounced dead at the scene. 

The hit-and-run driver has yet to be identified. It is still unclear whether drugs or alcohol played a role in the collision. 

No further information was released. Investigations are ongoing.