CHP: 'Person of interest' in fatal Kenwood hit-and-run crash

Officers found a car parked along Highway 12 with front end damage and is believed to be the one from Sunday’s fatal crash, the CHP said.|
RANDI ROSSMANN
THE PRESS DEMOCRAT

A tip to CHP officers has led to a damaged Lincoln Continental and a “person of interest” in the investigation of a Kenwood hit-and-run collision that killed an San Joaquin County man early Sunday, according to the CHP.

Information received about 8 p.m. Monday from a Kenwood resident included details about a possible suspect and vehicle with front-end damage, CHP Officer Jon Sloat said in a news release late Tuesday morning.

Officers found a 2001 Lincoln parked off Highway 12 with damage consistent with the crash, including a broken windshield. The car is believed to be the one that hit Theodore Erkson, 51, of Acampo and was impounded for evidence, Sloat said.

Officers believe Erkson may have been hitchhiking along Highway 12 in Kenwood about 12:10 a.m. Sunday when he was struck. He died from the impact.

The driver didn't stop, but windshield glass and wipers were left behind on the road.

Officers have interviewed the car's owner. As of Tuesday afternoon, no arrest was reported.

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