Reedley woman killed assisting driver on Highway 99 near Fresno. Suspect vehicle sought

The California Highway Patrol is seeking the driver of a red or burgundy SUV, possibly a red Ford Explorer, after a fatal hit-and-run early Wednesday morning south of Fresno on Highway 99.

The collision occurred about 12:20 a.m. on northbound Highway 99 north of Manning Avenue.

The Fresno County Coroner’s Office identified the victim as Juliana Ramos, 27, of Reedley.

A CHP spokesman said Ramos was a good Samaritan, stopping to help the driver of a Hyundai Elantra after that car was involved in a collision with a big rig.

Ramos was standing near the driver’s side door in the center divide when the suspect driver drove between Ramos’ Nissan Rogue and Hyundai and struck the victim. She was knocked to the ground and died at the scene. The suspect briefly stopped and stepped out before reentering the vehicle and speeding away.

The suspect vehicle, which may have damage to a left front fender, is sought by authorities. Anyone with information is asked to call the CHP at 559-262-0400.

This story was originally published February 10, 2021 at 9:45 AM.