Merced Police Officers responded to a report of a solo vehicle in Bear Creek at East South Bear Creek and Parsons Ave in Merced, December 5, 2020.

Police say, officers on scene located a black Dodge Caravan at the bottom of the creek on the south side. Officers entered the creek bed where they encountered 4 vehicle occupants, 2 males and 2 females all adults. The driver of the vehicle received major injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.

The identity of the deceased is being withheld pending notification of next of kin by the coroners office. The other 3 passengers were treated at area hospitals for non-life threatening injuries. The investigation is on going but it does appear that alcohol may have been a factor in the collision.

Merced Police are asking anyone with any information regarding this crime to contact Officer Crain at 209-388-6912 or by email at [email protected].