Pedestrian hit and killed by driver Monday in Hayward

HAYWARD – A driver hit and killed a pedestrian Monday night in Hayward, police said.

The fatal crash was reported around 9:55 p.m. near Jackson and Santa Clara streets, the Hayward Police Department said in a news release. Witnesses said the driver initially waited at the scene but then fled in a small pickup truck, leaving behind a license plate.

The pedestrian – identified by police as a 68-year-old Hayward man – was taken to an area hospital, where he died of his injuries. The Alameda County Coroner’s Bureau will release the man’s identity after it is confirmed and his next of kin is notified.

The death marks the city’s eighth traffic fatality of the year.

The driver – identified by police as a 55-year-old Hayward man – was found behind the wheel of the same vehicle a short distance from the scene. He provided a statement about the crash and was released, pending further investigation, police said.

An investigation is underway into the crash and police are working to determine if alcohol or drugs played a role.

Anyone with information related to the case can contact the police department at 510-293-7011.

Check back for updates.