Fresno, CA – On the late night of Saturday, June 21, 2025, a suspected DUI crash resulted in the death of Lorena Sanchez Bitler, 43, who drowned after a vehicle plunged into a canal, according to The Fresno Bee.
The Fresno Police Department reports that the accident took place shortly after 11:00 PM near the intersection of Floradora Avenue and Clark Street. The vehicle left the roadway and entered a canal filled with fast-moving water.
Authorities say Bitler and a male driver initially escaped the submerged vehicle, but the strong current pulled Bitler away before she could be rescued.
Police officers attempted to reach her by forming a human chain, and emergency responders performed life-saving measures, but she was later pronounced dead at the hospital. Bitler was identified by the Fresno County Coroner’s Office.
Divers from the Fresno Fire Department rescued the man, who was medically evaluated and later arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence. The incident remains under investigation.
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.
Passenger Liability
Driver liability insurance covers both those outside the vehicle and passengers inside. While it can be emotionally difficult to file a Wrongful Death Claim against someone close to the victim, the financial challenges after an accident can be overwhelming.
