Merced County, CA (February 2, 2026) — A 21-year-old woman from Stockton, Lupita Zúñiga, remains missing after a dune buggy accident that sent the vehicle into the Delta-Mendota Canal in Merced County, according to authorities.
The crash occurred near State Route 140 and Gravel Pit Road, in an area of western Merced County closest to Gustine. Authorities said the dune buggy flipped into the Delta-Mendota Canal, a fast-moving agricultural waterway. Zúñiga was one of four occupants in the vehicle. Three passengers were able to escape the canal, but Zúñiga did not resurface.
Authorities stated the dune buggy was being driven by 21-year-old Elixandro Naranjo Miranda at the time of the crash. Miranda and two other passengers exited the water safely. Despite search efforts by emergency responders, Zúñiga has not been located.
After the crash, Miranda left the scene on foot, according to authorities. He was later located by police at his home, arrested, and booked into the Merced County Jail on felony hit-and-run charges. The investigation remains ongoing, and no additional details have been released.
