Fatal Hit-and-Run Collision – Needham Street and McHenry Avenue
October 6, 2026 – Modesto Police Department officials report that on October 5, 2026, at approximately 4:00 p.m., 
Modesto Police officers responded to a vehicle-versus-bicyclist collision near Needham Street and McHenry Avenue.
The preliminary investigation indicates a white Chevrolet Silverado was traveling eastbound on Needham Street when the driver entered an alley immediately west of McHenry Avenue. As the vehicle traveled northbound through the alley, it collided with a 63-year-old bicyclist traveling westbound on Alice Street.
The driver fled the scene following the collision. The bicyclist sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased. His identity is being withheld pending notification of next of kin.
With assistance from MPD’s Real-Time Crime Center and patrol officers, investigators identified the suspect vehicle and later located it traveling in Modesto. Officers conducted a traffic stop near 9th and M streets and contacted the driver, identified as 33-year-old Manuel Cerrillo-Mendoza.
Officers conducted a DUI investigation and determined Cerrillo-Mendoza was driving under the influence. During the investigation, officers also identified prior DUI-related history involving Cerrillo-Mendoza. Based on the totality of the circumstances and following consultation with the Stanislaus County District Attorney’s Office, Cerrillo-Mendoza was arrested and booked on the following charges:
- 187 PC – Murder
- 20001(c) VC – Hit-and-run resulting in death
- 23153(a)/(b) VC – DUI causing injury or death
The circumstances surrounding the collision remain under investigation. This marks the 10th fatal traffic collision investigated by the Modesto Police Department in 2026.
Anyone with information regarding this collision is asked to contact Officer Avina with the Modesto Police Department at: AvinaC@modestopd.com.
Source: Modesto Police Department
