Benjamin Shermis Arrested after Fatal Hit-and-Run Crash near Arcata
MCKINLEYVILLE, CA (April 26, 2018) – A hit-and-run collision on US Highway 101 claimed the life of a pedestrian, on Thursday evening. The victim was later identified as 34-year-old Richard Brandon Freeman, a resident of Hoopa.
According to the California Highway Patrol, they received a report about an unconscious man lying in the center divider of the 101 freeway near Arcata, at around 9 PM. Upon arrival, they discovered Freeman unresponsive and immediately attempted life-saving procedures; however, he had already succumbed to his injuries.
In the initial investigation, the CHP stated that Freeman was in the northbound roadway before he got struck by a white 2001 Ford Econoline Van driven by Benjamin Shermis, a 33-year-old resident of Arcata. Shermis initially fled the scene before surrendering to the CHP Arcata Office the next day at around 6:30 PM.
Officers arrested him for felony hit-and-run, and he is now currently booked into the county jail. The Ford van involved in the collision was found with the help of the information given during the collaboration with the suspect.
A GoFundMe page was set up to help Freeman’s family with funeral expenses. Click on the link to donate.
Sweet Law offers our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Richard Brandon Freeman. We wish them strength and comfort during this trying time. May he rest in peace.
If you have suddenly lost a loved one in a hit-and-run pedestrian collision, reach out to the experienced lawyers at Sweet Law Group. We have over 40 years of experience in the legal field, and we will fight to achieve the justice and compensation that you and your family deserve. Our attorneys and experienced professional legal team have dealt with cases including car accidents, wrongful death, personal injury, and disability. Call our offices at (800) 203-3061 for a free consultation with a professional in your area. We can also be contacted 24 hours a day/ 7 days a week by email, online chat, and text message.
