Troy Upton Obituary, Death – Police in Paradise, California, are investigating a hit-and-run incident that resulted in the passing of a local resident on Saturday evening. Authorities say the crash occurred at the intersection of Clark Road and Pearson Road between 7:40 p.m. and 7:46 p.m. on October 4.
According to the Paradise Police Department (PPD), officers and emergency responders were dispatched to the scene following reports of a pedestrian being struck by a vehicle. When they arrived, they discovered the injured person, later identified as 34-year-old Troy Upton, a resident of Paradise. First responders immediately began life-saving efforts before transporting Upton to a nearby hospital. Sadly, despite those efforts, he was later pronounced deceased.
Investigators say the vehicle involved in the incident left the area before police arrived. As of now, no information has been released about the make, model, or color of the vehicle, and officers are working to locate both the car and the driver involved. The department emphasized that identifying and locating the person responsible is a top priority for investigators.
Authorities are asking anyone who may have witnessed the collision or who might have dashcam or surveillance footage from the area to contact the Paradise Police Department. Even small details, they noted, could be critical to helping them piece together what happened and bring clarity to the case. Tipsters can reach investigators at (530) 872-6241.
Police have not yet confirmed whether speed, visibility, or other factors contributed to the crash. The area where the collision occurred—Clark Road and Pearson Road—is a busy intersection known for regular traffic, especially during evening hours. Officers temporarily closed the area while the scene was examined and evidence collected. They have since reopened the roadway to normal traffic.
The PPD is working with regional law enforcement agencies to review surveillance cameras from nearby businesses and residences in hopes of identifying the vehicle. They are also reviewing traffic cameras from nearby intersections to determine the car’s direction of travel after the crash.
Local residents expressed shock and sadness over the incident, describing the intersection as a place where drivers need to remain particularly cautious. Community members have shared condolences for Upton’s family, who have lived in the Paradise area for several years. Friends and neighbors described him as a kind and hardworking individual who enjoyed being outdoors and helping others in his community.
In a public statement, the Paradise Police Department extended its sympathies to the victim’s family and urged drivers to remain vigilant, especially after dark. They reminded the public that pedestrian safety depends on both drivers and walkers being alert and following road rules. Police also noted that leaving the scene of an accident is a serious offense and called on the responsible driver to come forward voluntarily.
Authorities say this remains an active investigation and that updates will be shared as new information becomes available. The department hopes that public cooperation will help identify the vehicle and provide closure for Upton’s family.
The tragic event serves as a sobering reminder of how quickly a normal evening can turn into a tragedy. Police are encouraging all drivers to reduce speed in residential and downtown areas, keep their attention on the road, and watch for pedestrians—particularly during low-light conditions when visibility can be reduced.
Anyone who may have seen a vehicle driving erratically or leaving the Clark and Pearson Road area around the time of the crash is strongly encouraged to reach out to investigators. The PPD says that even a partial vehicle description or license plate number could make a significant difference in resolving the case.
