PRESS RELEASE: PPD Case 24-0199 Paradise Memorial Trailway DUI / Hit and Run

Date: March 8, 2024

On 03/08/2024 at about 0839 hrs, PPD Dispatch received a 9-1-1 call reporting a hit and run collision involving an off-road motorcycle versus a pedestrian on the Memorial Trailway near the 9100 block of Skyway.

Officers responded code-3 to the location and contacted the victim pedestrian, who sustained moderate injuries from the collision. The operator of the motorcycle fled the area southbound and was not initially contacted. The victim pedestrian was transported to Enloe Hospital by ground ambulance for treatment of his injuries.

Throughout the investigation, officers located evidence to suggest the motorcycle fled to the area of Forest Service Road. Following tracks, as well as contacts from prior incidents, officers arrived to a residence in the 1300 Block of Forest Service Road .

A subject later identified as 35 year-old Paradise resident, Mark Vargas, was contacted at the residence and presented injuries consistent with being involved in a recent collision. Vargas admitted to colliding with the pedestrian as well as being intoxicated during the incident and fleeing the scene. Vargas also provided officers with the location of the motorcycle. Upon inspection it was determined the motorcycle sustained damage consistent with the collision. The motorcycle was seized as evidence and Vargas was placed under arrest.

Vargas was transported to a local area hospital where he was treated for his injuries sustained in the collision. Vargas was then booked into the Butte County Jail.

Vargas was booked for the following violations with a bail set at $166,000

CVC 23153(A) Felony DUI
CVC 23153(B) Felony DUI +.08%BAC
CVC 20001(A) Felony Hit and Run with injuries
CVC 23154(A) Violation of DUI Probation.

LOCATION: Memorial Trailway / 9100 Block of Skyway

SUSPECT(S): Vargas, Mark Joseph (04/11/88)

INVESTIGATING OFFICER: Officer M. Wood

APPROVING SUPERVISOR: Sgt. J. Wilkey