[03-16-2026] Merced County, CA – Two Children Critically Injured After Being Struck By Car in Santa Nella

Two children, ages 5 and 2, were critically injured after being struck by a car in Santa Nella, Merced County, on Monday evening, March 16, 2026.

According to the California Highway Patrol, officers responded to the incident around 6:00 p.m. on South Venus Street. 

The preliminary investigation revealed that a 36-year-old man from Gustine was driving a 2004 Ford Crown Victoria southbound on South Venus Street at an unknown speed when he failed to stop for two children in the street.

The children were transported to the hospital and were later taken to Valley Children’s Hospital in Madera. They are listed in critical but stable condition.

After the collision, the driver left the scene for safety reasons and was later contacted by officers in the parking lot of Pea Soup Andersen’s. 

The driver is cooperating with the investigation, and CHP is working to determine the circumstances surrounding the crash.

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.