Teen dies after hitand-run collision

CONCORD >> An 18-year-old Concord High School senior has died from injuries suffered after he was struck by a hitand-run driver Monday night, officials said.

He was identified as Joseph Barratt III.

Barratt was found around 9:15 p.m. Monday with major injuries on the Port Chicago Highway on-ramp to eastbound Highway 4, the California HIghway Patrol said.

He was taken by ambulance to John Muir Medical Center in Walnut Creek, where he was later pronounced dead.

In a statement, the CHP said the teen was a pedestrian but did not say why they believed he was on the ramp. Authorities also said in a Facebook post that a person and vehicle of interest had been located, but have not given any additional information. Anyone with information may call the CHP’s Contra Costa office at 925-646-4980.

Concord High School Principal Rianne Pfaltzgraff said in a statement Thursday to students and their families “It is with great sadness that I share that CHS Senior Joe Barratt has passed away. We extend our deepest condolences to the family and our thoughts are with them as they deal with this difficult time. We will have counselors available on Tuesday to support any students who may need a space to process this.

“If you have any concerns about your child over the four day weekend, please feel free to email any counselor, administrator, or teacher so we can provide support when we return on Tuesday. We will keep the community informed about services or celebrations that may be held in memory of Joe. Joe was a kind and thoughtful young man and he will be dearly missed by many. Thank you for your support and compassion.”