Dine-and-Dash Suspect Hit by Car While Fleeing Fresno Restaurant
The suspect fled a restaurant after failing to pay for his meal, only to be struck by a vehicle whose driver also fled the scene.
A man attempting to evade a restaurant bill in Fresno, California, was struck by a vehicle and injured on Friday night, according to local authorities.
The incident occurred around 9:30 p.m. when the suspect allegedly left Indian’s Oven restaurant without paying for his meal. Following a pursuit by restaurant security, the individual ran into Olive Avenue, where he was struck by an eastbound vehicle. The driver of the vehicle also fled the scene.
Fresno Police Lieutenant James Rosetti confirmed the details to ABC 30. The pedestrian sustained moderate injuries and was transported to Community Regional Medical Center, where he is listed in stable condition.
Authorities utilized automated license plate reader technology to locate the hit-and-run vehicle, identified as a white Toyota Tacoma. The vehicle was found near East Hammon Avenue and North First Street.
The driver of the vehicle, identified as 36-year-old Steven Jones, was located by officers and admitted to driving during the collision. A sobriety test indicated that Jones was driving under the influence. He was arrested and booked into Fresno County Jail on felony hit-and-run charges.
The identity of the injured dine-and-dash suspect has not yet been released.
Indian’s Oven, a restaurant specializing in Northern Indian cuisine, has two locations in Fresno. The incident occurred near its Tower District establishment.