Ammons

After a jury trial, defendant was found guilty of two counts of “hit and run” driving in violation of Vehicle Code section 20001.

The People’s evidence supports the following statement of facts:

Afe about 5:20 p.m., April 20, 1969, Bradley and Christine Melvin were riding a motorcycle at a speed of 30 to 35 miles per hour on a highway near Ventura when defendant, driving an automobile in the opposite direction, made a sudden left turn in front of them. The motorcycle swerved to avoid a collision and struck a metal pole at the side of the road. Both of the riders were thrown to the ground. Defendant stopped, left his vehicle, and walked to within 10 feet of the Melvins, both of whom were on the ground. Christine was moaning. Defendant looked at them, then returned to his automobile and drove away. He did not identify himself to anyone and did not offer or render aid to the injured. Christine had in fact sustained serious injuries which required hospitalization. Bradley Melvin had “the wind knocked out” and sustained a muscle strain and some scratches.

Another motorist who saw the accident recorded defendant’s license number and identified him at the trial.

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