Fresno, CA – On the morning of Thursday, February 6, 2026, a pedestrian collision on Highway 99 claimed the life of 16-year-old Maxwell Thompson of Fresno, according to The Fresno Bee.

The California Highway Patrol reports the crash occurred when Thompson, a student at Justin Garza High School, was attempting to cross the northbound lanes of Highway 99 toward the center divider and was struck by a pickup truck. Officers and emergency medical personnel arrived within minutes and initiated life-saving measures, but Thompson was pronounced dead at the scene.

CHP officials noted this is the second pedestrian fatality reported on Highway 99 in the past two weeks. In a separate incident late last month, a 37-year-old man was struck and killed while walking in traffic on southbound Highway 99 near Fresno Street.

CHP continues to urge motorists to immediately report pedestrians seen walking along or attempting to cross freeways, citing the severe risk posed by high-speed traffic.

Pedestrian Fatalities and Wrongful Death Claims

Drivers have a Duty of Care towards pedestrians, which includes being vigilant for those travelling by foot and, if a 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.