Hit and Run Collision DUI Arrest

On July 9, 2015 at 5:20 AM, Santa Cruz Police Officers responded to a report of a hit and run collision in the area of Park Way and Acacia Way. Witnesses reported a silver Jeep Cherokee colliding with a parked car in the area. Witnesses also reported that the driver was naked as he fled from his car, and into the backyard of a home in the area. The homeowner reported the suspect was attempting to get into the residence via a sliding glass door.

Several officers arrived and were able to safely take the suspect into custody. Officers discovered the suspect sustained significant injuries during the collision. The suspect was transported from the scene to Dominican Hospital where he remains in ICU.

The suspect was identified as Richard Ducati, 51 year old from San Francisco.

Investigating officers believed Mr. Ducati was under the influence of drugs at the time of the collisions and subsequent arrest.

This collision came on the heels of another hit and run collision reported in the city of Santa Cruz at Mission Street and Miramar Drive, and another in the Live Oak area. Mr. Ducati is believed to be involved in these collisions, and possibly others through the area.

Mr. Ducati’s vehicle became disabled in the final collision and was towed from the scene. Photos of the vehicle are attached.

Mr. Ducati will likely be hospitalized for an extended period of time. He will be booked for his pending charges of Driving Under the Influence of Drugs, and Hit and Run when medically cleared. At this time, there is not a photo available for Mr. Ducati. Photos of silver Jeep Cherokee attached.

The Santa Cruz Police Department is actively investigating the facts and circumstances surrounding this incident. Anyone with information relative to this incident is asked to contact the Investigations Unit at (831) 420-5820.