Modesto, CA (November 21, 2025) – The Stanislaus County Coroner’s Office has identified the pedestrian who was struck and killed by a car on Paradise Road as Eric Vielma, 54, of Modesto.
Accident Details: The fatal collision occurred around 12:30 a.m. A sedan was traveling east on Paradise Road near Leon Avenue when it struck pedestrian Eric Vielma.
The Modesto Fire Department reported that when emergency units arrived, they found Vielma stuck under the vehicle. Emergency responders extracted him from under the car and provided medical aid, but Vielma died from his injuries at the scene.
The driver remained at the scene and was cooperating with the investigation. Modesto police indicated that drugs or alcohol did not appear to be involved in the incident.
Investigation: Modesto Police are still investigating the circumstances that led to the fatal collision. Investigators will examine multiple factors to understand how the incident unfolded, including:
- Pedestrian positioning. Determining where Vielma was walking (inside a crosswalk, at the intersection, or elsewhere along Paradise Road) is a key element in assessing right-of-way.
- Driver behavior. Officers will analyze whether the driver was traveling at a safe speed, paying attention to the roadway, and maintaining proper lookout for pedestrians.
- Lighting and visibility. Since the crash occurred after dark, investigators will examine street lighting, headlight illumination, and any sightline obstructions that may have affected visibility for both the pedestrian and the driver.
- Scene evidence. Roadway markings, debris, and the vehicle’s stopping point will help establish the pedestrian’s location at impact and estimate the driver’s reaction time.
- Witness statements and video footage. Interviews with bystanders and nearby surveillance footage may help clarify the sequence of events and confirm how the pedestrian entered the roadway.
Accident reconstruction is often utilized in fatal pedestrian collisions to analyze speed, movement, and visual perception. These factors can help investigators determine if driver error, pedestrian actions, or a combination of factors caused the crash.
Legal Considerations: Drivers are required to drive safely, remain alert, reduce speed when necessary, and watch for pedestrians in their path. Pedestrians must also ensure they are walking or traveling safely, using crosswalks, and avoiding stepping into traffic unexpectedly.
If the investigation determines that the driver failed to exercise reasonable care due to speeding, failing to pay attention, or not utilizing proper lighting, he could be found negligent. If the driver is negligent, Vielma’s surviving family members may be able to pursue a wrongful death claim. This type of claim can help cover expenses related to the funeral, loss of support, or emotional damages.
If there is evidence that the pedestrian, Vielma, was outside the crosswalk or did not adhere to pedestrian safety signals, California’s comparative negligence rules may apply. These rules divide fault based on each party’s contribution to the incident.
The continued investigation will help determine the distribution of liability between the parties.
I extend my heartfelt condolences to Eric Vielma’s family, friends, and community for this tragic loss.
Source: The Modesto Bee