Bicycle Rider Killed Belcher Avenue, Near Highway 59 in Merced County

MERCED COUNTY, Calif. (June 4, 2025) – A 27-year-old man riding a bicycle died in a car accident Tuesday night on Belcher Avenue, east of Highway 59 in Merced County.

The deadly, hit-and-run collision occurred just after 9:30 p.m. on June 3rd, according to the California Highway Patrol.

Pickup Truck Hits Bicyclist on Belcher Avenue

A 23-year-old man driving a white pick-up truck reportedly struck the bicyclist and fled the scene, police said. Meanwhile, the victim suffered major injuries and died at the scene.

The suspect drove home to a residence in Merced and his father called to report the crash.

“Those of us with adult children who drive must educate them on what to do if they hurt someone in a car accident,” said Attorney James Johnson. “This young man should have stopped and immediately called for help.”

Hit-and-Run Crash Under Investigation

Detectives say the crash occurred in an area with no street lights and the cyclist was wearing all black riding a silver BMX-style bike with no reflectors. The suspect in a 2012 Toyota Tacoma pickup truck was traveling behind the victim and both were traveling eastbound on Belcher Avenue towards Highway 59.

The pickup truck driver told authorities he didn’t see the rider until he struck him from behind. The victim was thrown onto the south shoulder of the roadway and his bike was on the north side.

The man who died has not been identified at this time and it’s unknown if charges are pending for the motorist.

Legal Questions? Know Your Rights: 1-800-208-3538

Johnson Attorneys Group is a personal injury law firm serving clients who are injured in California due to a negligent motorist. If you would like to contribute any information or have LEGAL QUESTIONS for a potential case, please call 1-(800) 208-3538 as soon as possible. Our personal injury law firm is a proud, longtime supporter of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD).

Source: CHP