By Crash News Writer 
Richmond, CA (September 2, 2026) – An 81-year-old pedestrian died after a hit-and-run collision at the intersection of 23rd Street and Hellings Avenue in Richmond. Police have since arrested a suspect in connection with the fatal crash.
According to the California Highway Patrol, the collision occurred at approximately 8:30 p.m. on August 23 at the intersection of 23rd Street and Hellings Avenue. Authorities identified the victim as Rafael Gutierrez Delgado, 81.
Investigators reported that Delgado was crossing the roadway when he was struck by a passenger vehicle. Police allege the driver continued traveling with Delgado on the hood of the vehicle until he was thrown from it before fleeing the scene without stopping to render aid.
The suspected vehicle was discovered abandoned in Richmond two days later. Following an investigation, Richmond police identified a 66-year-old Richmond resident as the alleged owner of the vehicle. The suspect was arrested on August 30 after officers contacted him in the 400 block of Fourth Street.
Authorities said the suspect was booked into the Contra Costa County Jail on suspicion of felony hit-and-run, vehicular manslaughter, and driving with a suspended license. These charges are allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
The Richmond Police Department continues to investigate the fatal collision.
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PLEASE TAKE NOTICE
The information contained in this article is based on preliminary reports released by investigating authorities and may be updated as additional facts become available. Readers seeking additional guidance can review frequently asked questions in California.
- Authorities identified the victim as Rafael Gutierrez Delgado.
- Criminal charges filed in this case are allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
- Additional investigative findings and court proceedings may be announced as officials continue reviewing the fatal collision.
Families seeking additional assistance after a fatal crash can review accident resources in California.
The content of this article is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal or medical advice. All information is based on public reports available at the time of publication and may change as investigators release additional details. Readers are encouraged to seek qualified legal counsel if they or someone they know has been involved in a similar incident. The publisher assumes no liability for actions taken or not taken based on this information. Learn more by reading our disclaimer.
If your family has lost a loved one in a fatal hit-and-run collision, contact an experienced California personal injury lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your legal rights and available options.