Hit-And-Run Suspect Arrested After 21-Year-Old Woman Killed On PCH In Malibu
MALIBU (CBSLA.com) — Deputies caught up with a driver suspected of hitting a 21-year-old woman on Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu and then fleeing the scene.
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The incident was reported at 5:38 a.m. Tuesday on Pacific Coast Highway near Ramirez Canyon Road, close to Paradise Cove, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department.
The victim, Melanie Quinonez of Van Nuys, had just turned 21 years old.
Quinonez was driving northbound on PCH with three passengers and had pulled over to walk around and stretch her legs, according to LASD Det. David Huelsen.
Deputies say that's when the suspect slammed into her.
"The initial information is that the car stopped for an unknown reason on PCH on the shoulder, and the driver apparently exited the vehicle and was later hit by the suspect vehicle," LASD Capt. Pat Davoren said. "I advise people: when you're on PCH, please be aware of your surroundings. Be careful when you exit your car and you're walking on PCH. It's a challenge, and we're currently working on this issue."
Two northbound lanes of PCH were temporarily closed for the investigation.
Deputies on the lookout for a white vehicle with front-end damage noticed the suspect on Kanan and Agoura roads, in Agoura Hills. The 25-year-old man behind the wheel voluntarily pulled over and was taken into custody.
Authorities later identified him as 25-year-old Pablo Carranza of Pacoima. He's been booked on suspicion of felony hit-and-run and is being held on $50,000 bail.
