Salvador Lemus Meza – Authorities have identified the pedestrian who lost his life in a traffic incident on Oswell Street last week as 68-year-old Salvador Lemus Meza of Bakersfield. Officials confirmed that a dog was also involved and did not survive the incident. The crash occurred in the early evening hours and is now under investigation by the California Highway Patrol.
According to the Kern County Coroner’s Office, the incident happened at approximately 5:45 p.m. on January 20 on Oswell Street, just north of Pioneer Drive. Emergency responders were dispatched to the area moments later following reports of a collision involving a vehicle and a pedestrian. When officials arrived, they found Meza with critical injuries. Despite emergency response efforts, he was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The California Highway Patrol reported that a 25-year-old man was driving a 2009 Nissan Rogue southbound on Oswell Street at the time of the incident. Investigators determined that Meza entered the roadway outside of a marked crosswalk and into the vehicle’s path. The circumstances surrounding the crash are still being reviewed as part of an active investigation.
Authorities stated that the driver stopped the vehicle shortly after the incident at the intersection of southbound Oswell Street and Potomac Avenue. The driver then returned to the scene and cooperated fully with law enforcement officers during the investigation. No injuries were reported for the driver.
Animal control officials were also called to the scene to handle the dog that was involved in the incident. Further details regarding the animal were not released.
Law enforcement officials have not announced any arrests or charges related to the crash at this time. The CHP continues to examine all factors involved, including roadway conditions, visibility, and traffic patterns, to determine how the incident occurred. Officials emphasized that investigations of this nature can take time as they work to gather accurate and complete information.
The loss of Meza has affected the Bakersfield community, and residents have expressed sympathy for his family and loved ones. Incidents involving pedestrians highlight the importance of road safety and awareness for both drivers and those traveling on foot, particularly during evening hours when visibility may be reduced.
Authorities are reminding pedestrians to use designated crosswalks whenever possible and to remain alert when crossing busy roadways. Drivers are also encouraged to stay attentive, follow posted speed limits, and be cautious in areas where pedestrian traffic is common.
As the investigation continues, officials say updates will be provided if additional information becomes available. The community is encouraged to keep Meza’s family in their thoughts during this difficult time and to prioritize safety on local roadways to help prevent similar tragedies in the future.
