Fresno, CA – In the late night of Thursday, August 21, 2025, a hit-and-run collision killed motorcyclist Thawon Pho, 27, of Fresno, according to CHP Fatal.
The California Highway Patrol reports that the accident took place around 11:58 PM on Highway 168 westbound near Shields Avenue.
Authorities said Pho rode west on his Kawasaki motorcycle when a Hyundai Elantra struck him from behind. The collision threw Pho onto the windshield of the Hyundai before he landed on the highway surface.
The Hyundai kept moving forward while pushing the motorcycle. Other vehicles traveling on the highway then struck Pho due to the extremely dark conditions and limited street lighting in the area. Emergency responders pronounced him dead at the scene.
Investigators said the driver of the Hyundai continued west before stopping on the shoulder of the freeway at McKinley Avenue. The driver fled on foot without offering aid or calling for help, leaving the vehicle behind.
On Friday, authorities arrested Julian Quinonez, 33, of Fresno. He faces charges of felony gross vehicular manslaughter, felony hit-and-run, and parole violations. Officers booked him into Fresno County Jail.
Wrongful Death Claims
Even if a fatal accident doesn’t lead to criminal charges, families who lose a loved one can still file a Wrongful Death claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance. This can provide support to help cover medical bills, funeral expenses, and the loss of income.
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.
Fresno Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, contact a Fresno Motorcycle Accident Lawyer for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.
