A 16-year-old driver from the South Bay was arrested in connection with a fatal hit-and-run crash on Newell Avenue in Walnut Creek early Saturday morning, December 28, 2024.
The crash occurred at approximately 2:36 a.m. under the Highway 680 overpass.
A Contra Costa County Sheriff’s deputy arrived first and performed CPR on an injured teenager until Walnut Creek police officers and medical personnel took over. The victim was transported to John Muir Medical Center in Walnut Creek, where he succumbed to his injuries.
Walnut Creek Police Department’s Major Accident Investigations Team (MAIT) determined that five teenagers were in the vehicle at the time of the crash. The driver and two passengers fled the scene.
Authorities located the 16-year-old driver in San Jose and arrested him on suspicion of vehicular manslaughter and felony hit-and-run causing death.
The names of the individuals involved are being withheld due to their ages. The investigation is ongoing.
Don’t Know What To Do After An Accident?
Your safety and rights depend on what you do next after an accident. Remember the following steps if you find yourself in one:
- Check yourself for any injuries.
- Stay on the scene, call 9-1-1, and wait for emergency responders.
- Move your vehicle to the road shoulder if safe; turn on hazard lights.
- Fully cooperate with law enforcement and stay until cleared to leave.
- Document the scene and injuries with photos and videos.
- Seek immediate medical attention.
- Contact your insurance company and find a personal injury lawyer for legal advice.
What A Lawyer Can Do For You
Many victims put off calling a lawyer even if they sustain injuries after an accident. However, lawyers can help you in many ways. They can provide you with police reports, CCTV footage, and witness statements to strengthen your case. Your attorney will also negotiate with insurance companies to get you fair compensation. The best part is that they will do all of these things for you at no upfront cost. So if you’re injured in an accident, hire a personal injury attorney to recover medical bills, car repair costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.