Fatal Pedestrian-Auto Collision Near Steele Avenue Leads to Arrest

BAKERSFIELD, CA (June 28, 2023) – Early Friday morning, Erick Mikail Bartlett was killed in a hit-and-run pedestrian crash on Edison Highway. The incident occurred around 3:32 a.m., near Steele Avenue just east of Webster Street on June 16th. According to the investigators, a white Nissan Sentra going east on Edison hit the pedestrian in the No. 2 lane for unknown reasons. However, the driver did not aid the victim and fled the scene. Medical responders rushed the pedestrian to Kern Medical where he later succumbed to their injuries. Authorities located the abandoned suspect’s vehicle on Kentucky and Center Streets. On Wednesday, police arrested 57-year-old Brian Lee Estes for suspicion of vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence and felony hit-and-run. Later, the Kern County Coroner’s Office identified the deceased victim as 26-year-old Erick Mikail Bartlett of Bakersfield. Anyone with additional information about the crash is encouraged to contact the CHP Bakersfield Area office at (661) 396-6600.
No words can mend the broken hearts and sorrow felt during this delicate moment. Deepest condolences and sympathies are with the family and friends of Erick Mikail Bartlett.
Losing someone in a hit-and-run crash is always a traumatic experience for the surviving family. At Sweet James, they understand that the death of a loved one can leave a lasting impact on your emotional and financial well-being, and they are here to help. Their wrongful death attorneys understand that legal issues impose challenges on those involved. Let them help you through the legal process so that you can focus on the welfare of your family. Call them today at 1-800-900-0000 to arrange a free and confidential case evaluation. For more accident news, click here.

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