Portland man arrested for December hit-and-run that killed pedestrian in Woodburn

Kenneth Kolarsky, 58, was arrested on Saturday night for his role in a deadly hit-and-run that killed Nicolas Hernandez-Mendoza, 44, in Woodburn last December. Kolarsky, who works at Silverton Hospital, had an outstanding felony warrant related to the incident. On December 26, 2024, Hernandez-Mendoza was struck by a light-colored SUV while crossing at the intersection of Pacific Highway and Williams Avenue. Emergency responders found him on the roadway, and he succumbed to his injuries at Salem Hospital. Following the incident, investigators noted the suspect vehicle's evasive maneuvers as it fled the scene.

The case underscores the persistent issues surrounding pedestrian safety in Woodburn. Authorities continue to seek information regarding the incident and encourage witnesses to come forward. Kolarsky's arrest marks a significant step in the ongoing investigation into the fatal accident.