Peggy Holt killed in pedestrian crash at Claribel and Langworth roads

Vehicle struck the Modesto woman as she walked near Riverbank and then fled the scene

April 07, 2026 | Modesto, CA

A Modesto woman lost her life in a devastating hit-and-run crash near Riverbank, as reported by the California Highway Patrol.

Peggy Holt, 79, died after a hit-and-run driver struck her near Claribel and Langworth roads near Riverbank in Stanislaus County.

The incident unfolded around 9 p.m. on April 7 along Claribel Road and Langworth Road. A vehicle struck a pedestrian before the driver fled without stopping to help or notify authorities.

Peggy Holt, 79, from Modesto, sustained fatal injuries in the collision. The Stanislaus County Coroner's Office has confirmed her identity.

Authorities suspect the vehicle is a white 2009-2014 Ford F-150 pickup truck, likely showing damage to the right front headlight, front bumper, hood, or fender.

The public is urged to contact CHP Modesto with any information about the suspect or vehicle.

What Happened in the Crash?

• Date and Time: April 7, approximately 9 p.m.
• Location: Claribel Road and Langworth Road, near Riverbank, California.
• Victim: Peggy Holt, 79, of Modesto.
• Incident Details: Pedestrian struck by a fleeing vehicle; no aid provided.
• Agency Involved: California Highway Patrol (CHP) leading the investigation.
• Status: Hit-and-run; suspect vehicle identified as white Ford F-150.

Why Do Hit-and-Run Accidents Happen in California?

California tops the nation in fatal hit-and-run cases, with data revealing significant risks for pedestrians, especially at night.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the state saw 457 pedestrian deaths from hit-and-runs in 2023—more than 10% of all fatal crashes, nearly double the national average.

Urban centers like San Francisco and Los Angeles face elevated rates, highlighting ongoing safety challenges on state roadways.

Legal Insights

In cases such as this, conducting an independent investigation promptly is crucial to safeguard victims' rights.

“Having the proper resources is extremely important in order to investigate a hit-and-run accident case and prove negligence,” said Candice Bond, managing partner of Bond Legal. “Road conditions, signage visibility, and road lighting are all possible contributing factors that are considered and must thoroughly be examined. These procedures are necessary for helping someone who has lost a loved one at the hands of a hit-and-run driver receive the justice and monetary compensation that they deserve.”

Key takeaways from legal analysis on motor vehicle crashes:

• Thorough examination of scene factors like lighting and signage can establish negligence.
• Timely investigations preserve evidence critical for claims.
• Families may seek compensation for losses including emotional trauma and funeral costs.

Pending investigation outcomes, Peggy Holt's family could pursue a wrongful death claim covering funeral expenses, loss of companionship, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.

“An incident is considered a wrongful death when either a person or entity commits a wrongful or negligent act resulting in a person's death,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel at Bond Legal. “When vehicle accident fatalities result from unsafe driving, aggressive or distracted driving, speeding, or driving under the influence, family members are usually left with the option to pursue a civil action against the responsible motorist.”

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