April 11, 2026 – Merced County, CA – Merced CHP officials report that on April 3, 2026, at approximately 8:03 p.m., Merced Communication Center (MCC) advised CHP Merced Area Units of a traffic crash involving a motorcycle versus an unknown vehicle on Wardrobe Avenue west of Thornton Road, outside the city of Merced, CA. Upon medical and emergency personnel arrival it was determined that a juvenile male had major injuries as result of the crash.

Preliminary investigation determined that the male juvenile out of Merced, CA was riding a minibike and was attempting to across Wardrobe Avenue, west of Thornton Avenue. The minibike was not equipped with a headlight and was being used during nighttime hours. A dark color Toyota BZ4X was traveling at an unknown speed on westbound Wardrobe Avenue west of Thornton Road. For unknown reasons, the unknown driver of the Toyota failed to observe the motorcyclist ahead and collided with the minibike. The impact caused the motorcyclist to become ejected from the minibike. The unknown driver continued to drive westbound on Wardrobe Avenue without stopping. As result of the crash, the juvenile motorcyclist suffered major injuries.

The vehicle involved was described as a dark colored 2023 or newer Toyota BZ4X, with left front damage.

The California Highway Patrol Merced Area is looking for assistance in locating the vehicle involved in this hit and run crash. If anyone witnessed the crash or has information related to the incident, please contact Investigating Officer Lou Saeteurn at (209) 356-6600 or after hours at (209) 356-2900. This traffic crash is still under investigation and your assistance is greatly appreciated.

For media inquiries, please contact Public Information Officer Eric C. Zuniga at (209) 356-6608.

The mission of the California Highway Patrol is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security.

Source: Merced CHP