Topeka Man Charged in Fatal Hit-and-Run Crash
Prosecutors filed charges against a 27-year-old man following a deadly collision that claimed the life of a 14-year-old.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Accidents
Authorities in Topeka have charged 27-year-old Noah Metz with second-degree murder after a hit-and-run incident left 14-year-old Joshua Solis-Maldonado dead. The crash occurred in the 2200 block of Southeast 37th Street.
Why it matters
The charges follow a swift investigation into a fatal pedestrian collision that has drawn significant attention to road safety in the local community. Law enforcement officials have moved to hold the suspect accountable for the incident that occurred late last month.
Noah Metz faces counts of second-degree murder, involuntary manslaughter, and leaving the scene of an accident. The legal process is ongoing following his arrest two days after the incident.
The players
Noah Metz
He is a 27-year-old man who has been charged with second-degree murder and other counts related to the fatal crash.
Joshua Solis-Maldonado
He was a 14-year-old resident who died after being struck by a vehicle.
The details
Police responded to the scene at 10:30 p.m. on September 23 after a vehicle struck the teenager, who was pronounced dead upon the arrival of first responders. Noah Metz was taken into custody by authorities on September 25 in connection with the fatality.
Timeline
The hit-and-run crash occurred on September 23, 2026.
Law enforcement responded to the scene at 10:30 p.m. on September 23, 2026.
Police arrested Noah Metz on September 25, 2026.
Legal Context
This case highlights the enforcement of stringent traffic safety laws within Shawnee County. The prosecution follows a pattern of heightened legal scrutiny for hit-and-run incidents resulting in fatalities.
Residents in the area near Southeast 37th Street may see increased police presence as investigations continue. The incident serves as a reminder for drivers to exercise extreme caution in residential zones.
The takeaway
Drivers are reminded of their legal obligation to remain at the scene of any collision involving a pedestrian. Strict penalties apply for those who flee, regardless of the circumstances surrounding the initial impact.
Further reading
For more information on similar incidents in the region, visit the Accidents section.
