The California Highway Patrol is looking for a hit and run driver who struck and killed a Patterson man out on a bike ride.

The deceased was identified as Frankie Sanchez, 51, of Patterson. Sanchez worked as a security guard at the Turlock Poker Room and The Rail.

The collision happened around 6:50 p.m. Wednesday on Marshall Road, east of Tulip Avenue.

Emergency personnel arrived at the scene and located Sanchez on the ground and unresponsive. Sanchez was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The preliminary investigations indicated Sanchez was riding his bicycle westbound on Marshall Road, along the north road edge, approaching Tulip Avenue. The driver of a GM pickup or SUV was traveling westbound on Marshall Road, approaching the rear of the bicyclist. The CHP said the right front of the vehicle struck the bicyclist, propelling him to the north. 

The driver of the vehicle fled the scene, continuing westbound on Marshall Road, according to the CHP.

The Modesto Area CHP is currently looking for a 2000-2006 GM pickup or SUV. Vehicles matching this category are: Chevrolet Silverado or Avalanche, Chevrolet Tahoe or Suburban, GMC Sierra or GMC Yukon.

It is possible the vehicle sustained front and right-side collision damage. The vehicle is likely to still have its passenger's side mirror assembly, but missing its actual mirror or glass.   

"Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family of Frankie Sanchez," the Turlock Poker Room wrote on its Facebook page. "Frankie has been a long time guard at the Poker Room and the Rail. He passed away yesterday. He will be missed."

Many people posted comments on the poker room's Facebook page remembering Sanchez for his humor and friendly demeanor.

Anyone with information pertinent to this investigation is encouraged to contact the Modesto Area CHP at (209) 545-7440 or (209) 356-2900.