Chowchilla, CA – On Monday, April 7, 2025, a hit-and-run collision resulted in the death of a 49-year-old woman, according to The Fresno Bee.
The California Highway Patrol reports that the incident occurred around 900 Trinity Avenue in Chowchilla.
Emergency dispatch received a call reporting a possible traffic accident involving a figure lying in the roadway. The caller was unsure whether it was a person or an animal. When officers arrived at the location, they found a woman lying unresponsive in the street.
She was later confirmed to be a resident of Chowchilla. Her name has not yet been released pending notification of her family.
Authorities stated that the driver of the vehicle had fled the scene prior to their arrival. However, the individual later returned and was detained by law enforcement for questioning. He was identified as 21-year-old Josue Vasquez, also of Chowchilla.
Following the preliminary investigation, Vasquez was arrested and transported to the Madera County Jail, where he was booked on suspicion of several felony charges related to the incident, including felony hit-and-run and vehicular manslaughter.
According to the CHP, investigators believe that drugs, alcohol, and excessive speed were contributing factors in the crash. Toxicology results are pending, and the incident remains under active investigation. Additional details may be released as the case develops.
California Hit-and-Run Laws
California Law requires drivers involved in a collision to stop their vehicle, notify law enforcement, and exchange insurance information with others involved. Failure to do so, considered to be a “hit-and-run,” is a misdemeanor in cases of property damage and a felony when someone has been injured.
Pedestrian Fatalities and Wrongful Death Claims
Drivers have a Duty of Care towards pedestrians, who are particularly vulnerable in traffic accidents. This responsibility includes being vigilant for pedestrians near the roadway and, if a fatal collision occurs, staying with the victim, alerting emergency responders, and cooperating with authorities investigating the crash.
For those who lose a loved one in a pedestrian accident, filing a Wrongful Death claim with the assistance of an experienced attorney can provide compensation for medical bills, funeral costs, and other related damages.
Should the at-fault driver avoid legal consequences, compensation might still be available through a family member’s uninsured driver coverage.
Fresno Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, contact a Fresno Pedestrian Accident Lawyer for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.
