The community of St. Helena is reeling from a devastating hit-and-run incident that claimed the life of an elderly resident on Main Street earlier this week. According to a report by the St. Helena Police Department, 81-year-old Jackie M. Rhodes of Napa was struck and fatally wounded while walking in the bike lane on Sunday at approximately 10 a.m. Rhodes, an avid walker, was found alert by pedestrians but later passed away at Queen of the Valley Hospital due to her injuries, as reported by the City of St. Helena.
Officials acted swiftly to piece together the events that led to the tragedy. Utilizing FLOCK automatic license plate reading cameras, they were able to identify the suspect vehicle successfully. A multi-agency effort including the Napa County Special Investigation Bureau, the Napa County District Attorney's Office, the Napa Police Department, and the Napa County Sheriff’s Department culminated in the arrest of 43-year-old Dominic Carvalho of Yountville. Secured now in the Napa County Department of Corrections, Carvalho faces multiple felony charges, namely felony Hit-and-Run Resulting in Death or Injury, as the police department has detailed.
As the investigation continues, the St Helena Police Department encourages anyone with additional information to contact Officer Stephenson. The department thanked all partnering agencies for their rapid response and collaborative efforts. Inquiries can be directed to the St. Helena Police Department at 1088 College Ave. or by phone at (707) 967-2850.
