A Foster Farms employee was killed on August 23 after being hit by a company-owned van that had been stolen by a temporary agency employee who was doing work for the company.
The incident occurred at a Foster Farms ranch in Fresno County, California, the company said in a statement.
"After being struck by the vehicle, the Foster Farms team member was taken to a local hospital and subsequently died of his injuries," the statement read. "We extend our sincere condolences and prayers to the team members family, loved ones, friends and co-workers. Out of respect for the privacy of our team member, we can provide no additional details."
According to a KSEE/KGPE report, the victim was identified as Jose Romero Aguilera, 25. Officials with the California Highway Patrol (CHP) informed the news outlet that the suspect has been identified as Melecio Hernandez Ayala, 40. Ayala allegedly entered a Chrysler Pacifica that was owned by Foster Farms, and then began to drive it within the company’s property. While driving the vehicle, Ayala allegedly struck Aguilera, who was walking on the property.
After striking the victim, the suspect allegedly left the property onto northbound Englehart Avenue.
Ayala surrendered to CHP authorities a short distance away from there, where he was booked into the Fresno County Jail under charges of felony hit and run and vehicular homicide.
CHP stated that Ayala was not a licensed driver.
The incident is under investigation.
Family raising funds for funeral
Surviving family members of Aguilera are raising money to help cover his funeral costs. A fundraising car wash was held on August 28, reported KFSN. A GoFundMe page has also been established.
