The Modesto community is mourning the tragic death of 34-year-old Arquel Rogers, who was fatally struck by multiple vehicles while in the roadway on the night of May 2, 2026. The incident occurred around 9 p.m. on West Hatch Road in south Modesto. Rogers was pronounced dead at the scene by first responders. The Stanislaus County Coroner’s Office officially identified him as the victim.
According to the Modesto Police Department, Rogers was in the middle of the roadway when he was first struck by a 2017 Honda Accord and then a 2018 Nissan Altima. Two drivers remained at the scene and cooperated fully with investigators. Officers believe a third vehicle, described as a dark-colored pickup truck, also struck Rogers before fleeing the area. A search for that driver remains active.
The crash took place on West Hatch Road between Boise Avenue and Dallas Street, with some reports noting the stretch extending toward Ustick Road in a south Modesto residential and commercial area. Police Traffic Unit Sgt. Kyle Johnson confirmed the sequence involving multiple vehicles hitting the pedestrian who was reportedly in the roadway at the time. The exact circumstances leading to Rogers being in the road continue to be investigated.
Family members have expressed profound grief over the sudden loss. Rogers’ aunt, Sheressa Jackson, created a GoFundMe campaign to help with burial and funeral expenses. The campaign highlights the heartbreaking and unexpected nature of the tragedy for loved ones left behind in the Modesto area.
This multi-vehicle pedestrian fatality has drawn attention to road safety concerns on busy corridors like West Hatch Road. Modesto Police continue their investigation into the hit-and-run element involving the dark-colored pickup truck. No charges have been announced against the drivers who stayed at the scene as the probe focuses on determining full responsibility.
Anyone with information about the dark-colored pickup truck or the events surrounding the crash on May 2 is urged to contact Modesto Police. The community has rallied with support for Rogers’ family as they navigate this devastating loss. The investigation by Modesto Police remains ongoing with limited additional details released at this time.