Nicolas Hernandez-Mendoza dies in fatal Woodburn, OR hit-and-run

Nicolas Hernandez-Mendoza dies in fatal Woodburn, OR hit-and-run

Fatal Woodburn, OR hit-and-run death of Nicolas Hernandez-Mendoza – Obituary

Nicolas Hernandez-Mendoza, a resident of Woodburn, Oregon, tragically passed away after being struck in a hit-and-run incident that took place on December 26, 2024. The collision happened around 8:48 p.m. at the intersection of Pacific Highway and Williams Avenue.

Authorities say Hernandez-Mendoza was in a crosswalk when he was hit by a light-colored SUV traveling along Pacific Highway. After the impact, the vehicle reportedly turned right onto Williams Avenue and then made a left turn heading south on Carol Street, fleeing the scene without stopping.

When officers arrived, they discovered Hernandez-Mendoza lying in the road. He was transported to a nearby medical facility but succumbed to his injuries shortly afterward.

On Saturday, May 17, 2025, police arrested 58-year-old Kenneth Kolarsky of Portland in connection with the fatal incident. Kolarsky, who was taken into custody outside Silverton Hospital where he works, was wanted on a felony hit-and-run warrant.

The arrest brings a measure of progress in the case, though the loss of Hernandez-Mendoza continues to weigh heavily on the community. His untimely death is a somber reminder of the devastating impact of hit-and-run collisions and the importance of accountability and justice for victims and their families.