Fresno, CA – On the night of Saturday, May 3, 2025, a pedestrian collision resulted in fatal injuries to a 60-year-old Fresno man identified as William Haywood, according to The Fresno Bee.
The authorities report that the accident took place around 11:15 PM near Blackstone and Swift Avenues.
Officers arrived to find the pedestrian, later identified by the Fresno County Coroner as Haywood, lying unresponsive in the roadway. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Haywood was reportedly a member of the unhoused community.
Police say the driver involved in the collision remained at the scene and fully cooperated with the investigation. Authorities have stated that neither alcohol nor drugs appear to have been factors in the crash.
No arrests have been made, and no citations have been issued as investigators continue to examine evidence and determine the events leading up to the incident.
The collision occurred in a well-traveled commercial corridor of central Fresno, prompting a temporary closure of lanes along Blackstone Avenue late Saturday night while police conducted their on-scene investigation.
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 bicyclists with whom they share the road 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 bicycle 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. Consulting with a personal injury attorney can help determine the best options in such cases.
