21-year-old killed in Malibu hit-and-run crash; driver arrested

MALIBU, Calif. (KABC) -- A 21-year-old woman was struck and killed in a hit-and-run crash in Malibu early Tuesday morning, officials said.

The crash occurred around 5:45 a.m. near Pacific Coast Highway, just east of Zuma View Place. Deputies said the victim, later identified as Melanie Quinonez, had stepped out of her car to stretch for a moment when she was struck along a narrow shoulder of the highway. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

Deputies said she had just turned 21 years old on Monday. Three of her friends were inside her car at the time of the incident. Authorities said they were able to give investigators a description of the car that hit their friend.

The suspected driver, identified as 25-year-old Pablo Carranza, did not slow down after the crash and continued traveling northbound. He was arrested without incident soon after the crash not far from the scene near Kanan Road and the 101 Freeway.

Carranza was booked at the Malibu/Lost Hills Sheriff's Station and is being held in lieu of $50,000 bail.

Deputies said this is a dangerous stretch of PCH for pedestrians, joggers and even motorists who pull over and need assistance.

"When you're on PCH, please be aware of your surroundings. Be careful when you exit your car and when you're walking on PCH. It is a challenge and we are currently working on this issue," said Capt. Pat Bavoren with the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department.

Sheriff's deputies shut down both directions of PCH in the area due to the investigation. All lanes reopened around 12:38 p.m.

The crash remains under investigation. Anyone with further information was urged to contact the Malibu/Lost Hills Sheriff's Station at (818) 878-1808.