Boy, 6, killed after being struck on bike

A 6-year-old boy was killed after being struck on his bicycle by a car Monday in South Merced, police reported.

The boy has been identified as Andrew Jackson of Merced, according to the Merced County Coroner's Office.

Officers responded to the scene at 5:12 p.m in the 400 block of Connie Court. Police found the boy lying in the roadway, bleeding severely, according to Sgt. Jay Struble.

Officer Ken Coe began administering CPR to the child until Riggs Ambulance paramedics arrived.

The child was taken to a local hospital and later pronounced dead. Police said he wasn't wearing a helmet.

Police determined a black 2000 Toyota Tacoma driven by 58-year-old Cher Thao of Merced was traveling northbound on Connie Court when the child rode his bicycle into the street. Thao's car was traveling at a slow speed, but he was unable to avoid hitting the child.

Struble said Thao had just pulled out of a driveway on Connie Court and had traveled about 90 feet when the child rode in front of him.

DUI doesn't appear to be a factor in the accident, Struble said.

Police are asking anyone with information to call Sgt. Struble at (209)385-4739 or the department's automated tip line at (209) 385-2431. Calls are kept confidential, and you can remain anonymous.

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