Reno, NV : Driver in deadly crash on Mt. Rose Highway on Thursday night, January 1, 2015

The owner of the Isuzu involved in the deadly crash on Mt. Rose was identified this morning; but was not inside the car last night during the crash.

Troopers have also identified the passenger in the vehicle who died; he was the registered owner's brother 40-year-old Hugo Barrios and passed away after being taken to Renown for his injuries.

The driver, believed to be Hugo Barrios' friend, fled the scene and has not yet been found.

NHP says the owner did not know his car was being used last night.

Trooper Dave Gibson says that, although the investigation is ongoing, HHP has a good idea of who the driver may have been.

"We are very confident [of the driver's identity] at this time because we have some leads with eye whiteness and witness statements and also with information from the registered owner who was telling us the driver of the vehicle was known by his brother, who is the deceased, so they were acquaintances," says Gibson.¤w0 25 ]] c2.5 g 0 [[

A witness told troopers an injured person left the scene last night.

Trooper Dave Gibson says there were open alcohol containers found inside the Isuzu Rodeo when NHP troopers arrived on scene.

As for the status of the occupants of the other vehicle in the crash, two of the three passengers inside the car are still at Renown tonight. The third has already been released.

Source :
NHP: Registered owner not in vehicle during Mt. Rose crash