Fatal Auto vs. Pedestrian Update

Chico Police Major Accident Investigation Team (M.A.I.T.) have been investigating the fatal collision from last Friday evening (Feb 24th). The pedestrian who was killed has been identified as Ezequiel Zepeda, a 73-year-old male from Chico, CA. The investigation determined that Zepeda ran out onto Hwy 32 in an attempt to cross the street, likely not noticing the approaching vehicle. The driver of the car that struck Zepeda stopped immediately and stayed with him until emergency personnel arrived. The driver of the vehicle was not under the influence and has cooperated with investigators. The toxicology results for Zepeda will not be known until the autopsy is complete. We would like to thank the witnesses who rendered aid to Zepeda until the paramedics arrived.

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On 02/24/2023 at 6:15 PM, Chico Police Officers were dispatched to a report of a vehicle vs. pedestrian collision that had just occurred on State Route 32 at the intersection of E. 8th Street in Chico. Officers quickly arrived on scene, along with medical and fire personnel. Life-saving measures were immediately performed on the pedestrian at the scene. Based on witnesses at the scene and a statement by the involved driver, it was determined that the pedestrian was struck by a vehicle near the above intersection. The pedestrian suffered major injuries as a result of the collision and was pronounced deceased at the scene. At this time, alcohol and drugs do not appear to be a factor in this collision.         

The Chico Police Department MAIT (Major Accident Investigation Team) has taken over the investigation, which is ongoing. 

Anybody with information related to this collision is asked to contact the Chico Police Department Traffic unit at 530-895-4911. 

Location: State Route 32/ E. 8th Street, Chico CA

Victim: Withheld Pending Next of Kin Notification

Supervisor: Sgt. Tony Ferreira

Lieutenant: Lt. Jeff Durkin

The Chico Police Department is committed to ensuring our community is a safe place to live, work, and recreate within!