Pedestrian killed on Highway 180 in Fresno County. Here’s what investigators know

The California Highway Patrol is investigating a fatal accident late Saturday night when a vehicle struck a Mendota pedestrian on Highway 180 east of James Avenue.

The victim, identified Monday as 47-year-old Jose Fernandez, was struck around 11:35 p.m., walking on the road’s shoulder before moving into oncoming traffic, directly into the path of a 2015 Hyundai Elantra traveling west on the 180, according to a preliminary report.

Officers from the Fresno-area CHP and medical emergency personnel responded, but Fernandez was pronounced dead at the scene. It was not immediately known if alcohol or drugs were a factor.

The driver of the Hyundai did not sustain injuries and was not under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

This story was originally published March 20, 2022 at 9:41 AM.