Authorities in Modesto have confirmed that 34‑year‑old Arquel Rogers was killed on May 2, 2026, after being struck by multiple vehicles while walking in the roadway along West Hatch Road. Police are still searching for a dark‑colored pickup truck believed to have fled the scene after hitting him.
On the night of Saturday, May 2, 2026, at about 9:00 p.m., Modesto Police officers responded to reports of a pedestrian collision on West Hatch Road between Boise Avenue and Dallas Street. According to investigators, Rogers was in the roadway when he was struck by a series of vehicles. The Stanislaus County Coroner’s Office later identified him as the victim and confirmed his death at the scene.
Police determined that Rogers was hit by a 2017 Honda Accord and a 2018 Nissan Altima. Both drivers stopped immediately, remained at the scene, and cooperated with investigators. Witness statements and roadway evidence, however, indicated that a third vehicle, described as a dark‑colored pickup truck, also struck Rogers before fleeing the area.
The Modesto Police Department has launched a search for the pickup truck driver. Investigators are reviewing surveillance footage from nearby businesses and homes, as well as analyzing vehicle debris left at the scene. Authorities emphasized that locating the fleeing driver is critical to completing the investigation.
This incident marks the third fatal traffic collision investigation in Modesto in 2026, compared to eight at the same point last year. Police noted that while overall fatal crashes are down, hit‑and‑run cases like this highlight ongoing challenges in roadway safety enforcement.
Family members of Rogers have launched a GoFundMe campaign to assist with funeral and burial expenses. Loved ones described him as “a bright light in our lives, known for his kindness, laughter, and the love he shared with everyone around him.” Community members have rallied around the family, leaving tributes and donations to honor his memory.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the dark‑colored pickup truck or its driver to contact Traffic Safety Officer Cody Chesney at Chesneyc@modestopd.com. Police stressed that community cooperation is essential to bring closure to Rogers’ family and ensure accountability for all drivers involved.
