Fresno, CA – On the afternoon of Sunday, August 17, 2025, a fatal pedestrian collision involving a DUI suspect killed Shante Vasquez, 30, of Fresno, according to ABC30.
The Fresno Police Department reports that the accident took place around 3:00 PM at the intersection of Olive Avenue and First Street.
Investigators determined that Vasquez walked along the sidewalk when a gray Honda Accord, traveling westbound on Olive Avenue, veered out of its lane. The vehicle jumped the curb, struck Vasquez, and then slammed into a power pole. The impact carried Vasquez into the roadway, where she came to rest in the middle of the intersection.
Emergency responders arrived within minutes. Paramedics attempted lifesaving measures, but Vasquez suffered catastrophic injuries and died at the scene. Police officers secured the area and directed traffic while medical crews and collision investigators worked along both streets.
Investigators identified the driver as Akinyele Chatmon, 47, of Fresno. Officers arrested Chatmon on suspicion of driving under the influence of both drugs and alcohol. Before his arrest, medical personnel transported him to Community Regional Medical Center for evaluation of injuries sustained in the crash.
Police stated that Chatmon’s vehicle sheared off a utility pole, scattering debris across lanes and damaging nearby property. Crews worked to stabilize the pole and restore service to the area.
The Fresno Police Department’s Collision Reconstruction Unit continues to investigate the fatal crash. Detectives are reviewing whether speed or other circumstances contributed to the collision, in addition to suspected impairment.
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 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.
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.
