Jesus Bernal-Olea Arrested in Pedestrian Crash on Highway 40 [Columbia, MO]

Columbia, MO (August 5, 2026) — 18-year-old Jesus Bernal-Olea faces multiple charges after authorities said he struck a pedestrian with his vehicle and fled the scene.

The incident happened around 2:10 p.m. on August 3 along Highway 40 near the Midway Travel Plaza. According to investigators, a 2013 BMW 328i veered off the roadway and hit a man who was lying in a roadside ditch before leaving the area and entering Interstate 70.

Emergency responders transported the victim to a hospital with serious injuries.

Law enforcement later tracked the BMW using Flock camera technology and located the vehicle near Rangeline Street and Smiley Lane. Boone County deputies stopped the car and arrested the driver, Jesus Bernal-Olea, 18.

Prosecutors charged Bernal-Olea with second-degree assault, leaving the scene of an accident involving physical injury, careless and imprudent driving involving an accident, and possession of 10 grams or less of marijuana. He remains held on a $30,000 bond.

Do The Right Thing. Stay. Help. Take Responsibility.

A hit-and-run is not just a crime but a devastating act of cowardice, leaving victims injured, scared, and sometimes fighting for their lives. If you’re involved in a traffic accident, stop immediately. Call 911. Help those who are hurt.

Remember that fleeing the scene only worsens the situation and carries serious legal consequences, including felony charges. Victims deserve accountability and justice.

Drivers should remain alert at all times and never leave the scene of a crash. Staying at the scene, calling for emergency assistance, and cooperating with investigators can help protect lives and ensure victims receive prompt medical care.

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