Fresno County, CA – In the early hours of Wednesday, December 25, 2025, a crash into a canal resulted in fatal injuries to Carlos Mendoza, 21, according to KSEE.
The California Highway Patrol reports that the accident took place near Madsen Avenue and Herndon Avenue.
Authorities stated that Mendoza had been reported missing by his family between Christmas Eve and Christmas Day after he failed to return home. Investigators said family members used location data from his phone to help narrow the search area, where responding officers located physical evidence consistent with a possible traffic collision.
CHP officials reported that a dive team was requested to search a nearby canal, where a 2012 Dodge Journey was found approximately 12 feet underwater. The vehicle was recovered by tow crews, and Mendoza was located inside the car.
Officials stated that Mendoza was restrained at the time of the crash. Due to the circumstances and severity of the incident, the Fresno County Coroner’s Office formally identified him following recovery.
Authorities indicated that the circumstances leading up to the crash remain under investigation. CHP continues to examine vehicle movement, roadway conditions, and other contributing factors in accordance with standard traffic collision investigation procedures.
Wrongful Death Claims
Losing a loved one in a traffic accident is devastating, and the pain can be made worse by the financial strain that often follows. Medical bills, funeral costs, and the loss of income to support dependents of the deceased can leave families struggling. Filing a Wrongful Death claim against those responsible can provide compensation to help with these expenses.
Single-Vehicle Collisions
In some cases, investigations may reveal that even in a single-vehicle accident, nearby drivers or unsafe road features share some responsibility. California’s Comparative Negligence rule means that, even if those injured in accidents are found partially at fault, they may still be eligible to receive partial compensation for damages.
Fresno Car Accident Lawyer
If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, contact a Fresno Car Accident Lawyer for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.
