One man was killed in a vehicle vs. pedestrian accident that occurred along Jackson Avenue in Escalon late night Thursday, June 15.

According to police, the incident occurred in the 2500 block of Jackson Avenue, at the east edge of town, just before 11 p.m.

Authorities were called to the scene after a 9-1-1 caller reported a subject down in the roadway not moving.

The driver, identified by Escalon Police Chief Mike Borges as an Oakdale man, was eastbound when the incident occurred and stayed at the scene. He has not been charged in the case.

“There were no signs of impairment on the part of the driver,” said Borges.

Police said a 65-year-old man from Escalon was in the area with another subject attempting to cross the street. The fatal victim reportedly walked out in front of the oncoming vehicle, which was unable to avoid striking him. Borges said though they have the identity of the man, authorities have not been able to notify his next of kin so his name has not been officially released.

“We are having some trouble finding the next of kin,” Borges said, noting that they have some possible leads and are following up in hopes of notifying family members.

The man was believed to be intoxicated at the time of the incident; authorities are awaiting toxicology tests to determine if that is the case, said Borges.

He also said the victim was well known to local police, with officers having multiple contacts with the subject over the last few years. The other man involved was not injured, said Borges.

Police responding to the scene included Sgt. Gustavo Flores, officers Steven Quilici, David Armendariz and senior volunteer Dave Willis.

The incident occurred in a poorly lit area, close to the intersection with Campbell Avenue along the highway. Authorities said the victim and his companion were waiting in a turn lane in the center of the roadway, having crossed partway, but then the victim continued across, in front of the oncoming vehicle.