Man accused of DUI, injuring passenger

By VICTOR A. PATTON

A 33-year-old Merced man was arrested Saturday on suspicion of drinking and driving, after California Highway Patrol investigators say he crashed on Ashby Road, injuring his passenger.

The crash was reported shortly after 9:08 p.m. on Saturday. Driver Raymond Cano was traveling westbound on Ashby Road at an unknown speed in a Chevy Blazer, according to Officer Shane Ferriera, CHP spokesman.

Ferriera said the vehicle veered to the right and left the roadway, hitting a light pole and a tree. The vehicle came to a rest on the sidewalk.

Cano and his passenger, Teresa Morales, 47, of Merced, were both flown to hospitals in Modesto. Morales had major injuries, Ferriera said,

After being treated for moderate injuries, Cano was released and booked into the Merced County Jail on suspicion of DUI causing and injury accident, driving without a license, driving without proof of insurance and a misdemeanor warrant for petty theft.

He remains at the jail in lieu of $50,713 bail.

Cano and Morales were both wearing seatbelts, Ferriera said.

Reporter Victor A. Patton can be reached at (209) 385-2431 or vpatton@mercedsun-star.com.