Coroner IDs Menifee Pedestrian Killed In Winchester Crash

MURRIETA, CA — A Menifee pedestrian struck and killed by a hit-and-run driver over the weekend in the unincorporated community of Winchester was identified Tuesday by the Riverside County Sheriff-Coroner's Bureau.

Andrew Lopez, 41, was pronounced dead at the crash scene on state Route 79, about a quarter-mile south of Scott Road, at 10:45 p.m. Saturday, according to the coroner.

The California Highway Patrol responded to the crash moments after the pedestrian, later identified as Lopez, had been struck by a passing vehicle as he was walking in the northbound traffic lane, CHP Officer Mike Lassig said.

Investigating officers found broken vehicle parts and learned they were looking for an SUV — a 2016 Toyota Rav4, according to Lassig.

Through "investigative leads," the vehicle driver, a 71-year-old Temecula man, was later found in Hemet. The driver was questioned and showed no signs of impairment. However, felony hit-and-run charges are pending for that driver, Lassig reported.

Anyone who witnessed the crash or has information is asked to contact the CHP at 951-506-2000.