Gilroy man killed in suspected DUI crash in Merced County, CHP says

Authorities are investigating a possible DUI crash that killed a 23-year-old Gilroy man on Saturday in Merced County.

At about 6:30 p.m., Merced area California Highway Patrol officers responded to a report of a vehicle that struck a power pole int he area of Franklin Road north of Highway 140, according to CHP Officer Eric Zuniga. Authorities said the man was driving a 1993 Chevrolet Silverado south on Franklin Road at an unknown speed when the vehicle traveled to the east side of the roadway and struck a power pole.

Arriving officers located the man lying on the passenger side floor of the vehicle, according to the CHP. First responders rendered aid to the driver and performed CPR but the man ultimately died of injuries sustained in the crash.

According to Zuniga, officers reportedly located open containers at the scene as well as detected an odor of alcohol.

Authorities said the crash remains under investigation and anyone with information is asked to contact CHP Officer Davidson at 209-356-6600.