Stirling Kelso dies in fatal Ogden car wash hit-and-run
Fatal Ogden car wash hit-and-run incident claims the life of Stirling Kelso – Obituary
The victim of a tragic hit-and-run crash at an Ogden car wash has been identified as 63-year-old Stirling Kelso, who was pronounced dead at the scene on October 30, 2024.
Authorities have arrested 21-year-old Christian Hernandez Palma, who is suspected of striking Kelso with his vehicle before fleeing the scene. Hernandez Palma has been charged with felony hit-and-run, driving without a license, and failing to maintain a proper lookout.
The incident occurred as Kelso was cleaning the parking lot of a car wash located at 7th and Washington Boulevard. Reports indicate that after hitting Kelso, Hernandez Palma drove away, prompting a nearby business manager to call 911 upon learning that a body was on the ground.
Surveillance footage from the area revealed a grey 2010 Lexus linked to the incident. The footage also captured a truck following the Lexus after the crash, during which the driver, later identified as Hernandez Palma, was seen conversing with the truck’s occupants.
Upon locating the Lexus, police observed damage consistent with a collision involving a pedestrian. When questioned, Hernandez Palma admitted to hitting Kelso and stated that he went to wash the car afterward because he was scared and unsure of what to do.
Kelso’s friend, Neisha Nicholls, remembered him as a kind-hearted individual who was always willing to help others. She expressed her sorrow over his passing, emphasizing the need for caution in parking lots.
Furthermore, it was revealed that Hernandez Palma presented a permanent resident ID to police, which was later determined to be counterfeit. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials indicated that he may be in the country illegally, having entered from Mexico.