Atwater, Calif. – On June 1, 2025, at approximately 10:35 pm, Merced Communication Center (MCC) received a report of an injury traffic crash in the area of Southern Pacific Avenue and Commerce Avenue involving a pick-up truck and sedan. Callers related to 911 that the driver of the pick-up truck had fled the scene on foot after the crash. Upon arrival, CHP officers observed two parties with major injuries and immediately administered CPR until emergency personnel arrived.
Unfortunately, a 20-year-old female passenger from Atwater, CA was pronounced deceased at the scene. A 3-year-old female passenger from Atwater, CA was transported to Mercy Medical Center in Merced but also succumbed to her injuries.
With the assistance of Atwater PD, CHP units located and arrested the suspected driver at approximately 12:20 am. He was identified as Moises Haven Castillo (19, Catheys Valley, CA).
Preliminary investigation determined Castillo was driving a 2005 Chevrolet Silverado eastbound on Southern Pacific Avenue at a high rate of speed and failed to stop at a posted stop sign. A 17-year-old driver in a 2025 Honda Civic was making a legal left turn when Castillo’s vehicle struck the passenger side of the Honda, ejecting the 20-year-old passenger.
The 17-year-old driver and 18-year-old front passenger attempted to help the victims. Castillo fled the scene on foot and was later found and taken into custody. He sustained minor injuries and was medically cleared before being arrested on suspicion of felony DUI, felony hit and run, and vehicular manslaughter.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Investigating Officer Abdiel Enriquez at (209) 356-6600.
The California Highway Patrol reminds the public that DUI crashes are 100% preventable. Don’t drink and drive.
