TEMPE, AZ – A bicyclist is dead after being struck, then dragged by a hit-and-run driver in Tempe on Friday night, according to CBS 5 News.
The accident occurred near the intersection of Baseline Road and Mill Avenue at about 7:30 p.m. Friday, as a 41-year-old woman riding a bicycle crossed the street.
Police believe she was struck by the driver of a pickup truck that was hauling a trailer. Their investigation revealed that the victim was possibly dragged for hundreds of feet after the impact. The driver fled the scene after the crash.
The victim was taken to the hospital, where she was later pronounced dead.
Officials later arrested 40-year-old Raul Meza Portillo at his home. They believe he was aware he had struck someone, and noted that he was likely under the influence of alcohol while speaking to officials. It is unclear, however, if he was driving while intoxicated at the time of the accident.
He is facing charges of leaving the scene of an accident and second-degree murder.
Authorities continue to investigate the collision at this time.
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