Fresno, CA – In the early hours of Monday, April 6, 2026, a hit-and-run collision involving Timothy Seth Chavez, 22, resulted in the deaths of Martha Hernandez, 41, and her 9-year-old son, Adrian Hernandez, both of Fresno, according to KSEE/KGPE.
The Fresno Police Department reports that the accident took place around 2:00 AM at McKinley Avenue and Highway 41.
Authorities said a Honda SUV driven by Chavez struck a Dodge SUV carrying Martha and Adrian Hernandez, sending the Dodge into an adjacent canal. Chavez fled the scene, leaving the Honda abandoned in the roadway. Multiple rescue teams from the Fresno Fire Department responded and worked to remove the victims from the submerged vehicle. Martha Hernandez was transported to Community Regional Medical Center, where she was pronounced dead. Adrian Hernandez also died as a result of the crash.
Chavez turned himself in at the Fresno County Jail later that same day and was medically cleared at Community Regional Medical Center before being formally booked. He faces two counts of gross vehicular manslaughter, two counts of felony hit-and-run, driving on a suspended license, and driving without insurance.
The investigation remains ongoing.
Hit-and-Runs and Wrongful Death Claims
The compensation provided by a wrongful death claim can financially support families grieving the loss of a loved one due to another person’s negligence. These funds can go toward hospital bills, burial expenses, and help support any dependents of the deceased.
In cases where the at-fault party escapes justice, families may still be able to pursue compensation through their own uninsured driver coverage. A personal injury attorney can offer guidance on what options they may have available and negotiate with insurance companies to ensure that victims receive the best settlement possible.
Fresno Wrongful Death Lawyer
If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, feel free to contact a Fresno wrongful death lawyer for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.
