Caltrans Contract Worker Killed In Hit-And-Run Crash In Work Zone

SACRAMENTO, CA — Caltrans and its construction contractors were reeling Tuesday from the news that a contractor's employee was struck and killed Monday night by a hit-and-run driver in South Sacramento, a Caltrans spokesperson said

The fatal incident was reported at 8:51 p.m. on northbound state Highway 99 near the Martin Luther King Boulevard exit.

"Tragically, 47-year-old Troy Jacob Lohuis, an employee with Highway Specialty Company in North Highlands, was pronounced dead at the scene," Caltrans District 3 Spokesperson Deanna Shoopman said.

The California Highway Patrol is leading the investigation and said Lohuis was setting up a construction work zone sign saying "Lane Closed Ahead" related to work on the 21st Avenue repair project on Highway 99 when the driver of a pickup truck swerved onto the shoulder and struck him.

CHP was continuing its investigation of the fatal hit-and-run, which includes trying to identify the driver and the truck. Possibly a 2015-2018 model Ford F-150, the pickup truck may have damage to its right side and may also have a missing side-view mirror.

"The entire Caltrans family shares the grief and sorrow felt by Mr. Lohuis’ family and co-workers," Caltrans District 3 Director Amarjeet Benipal said. "We offer our deep sympathy and profound condolences as this tragedy becomes real for all of his friends and family, and they must figure out how to face each day without him.."

CHP asked anyone who witnessed the incident to contact the South Sacramento CHP Office at 916-897-5600.