UPDATE: The teenager who was hit and killed by a vehicle in northwest Fresno has been identified as 16-year-old Maxwell Thompson.
Officials say Thompson was a student at Justin Garza High School.
FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) — A 17-year-old has died after being hit while trying to cross Highway 99 in northwest Fresno.
The California Highway Patrol was called out to the highway near Herndon Avenue just before 9 a.m. Thursday.
Officers say the teen ran in front of a pickup truck in the far right lane as he attempted to cross the northbound traffic to get to the center divider.
The driver of the truck was unable to avoid him.
CHP and paramedics gave the teen medical aid but he was declared dead at the scene.
The driver of the pickup truck stayed on scene and cooperated with authorities.
Officers say alcohol or drugs are not factors in the incident.
“This is an incredibly tragic loss, especially involving someone so young,” said Commander, Captain Ian Holguin. “Freeways are designed for high-speed vehicle travel and leave drivers with little to no time to react to unexpected hazards. Pedestrians on freeways are at extreme risk. If you see someone walking along or attempting to cross a freeway, please call 9-1-1 immediately so officers can respond before a tragedy occurs.”
The crash is still under investigation.
Listen to the report by KMJ’s Liz Kern.
