Fresno, CA – On the afternoon of Saturday, July 19, 2025, a two-vehicle collision caused fatal injuries to an 89-year-old man, according to KSEE.

The CHP reports that the accident took place around 2:00 PM near Newmark Avenue, just south of Jefferson Avenue.

Authorities say Refujio Perez, 59, was driving a Nissan Rogue southbound when he veered onto the dirt shoulder and struck the rear of a parked Toyota Corolla. The 89-year-old victim, who was sitting in the driver’s seat of the Corolla, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.

The collision caused the Toyota to crash into three additional unoccupied parked vehicles. Perez suffered minor injuries in the crash and was medically evaluated before being arrested.

CHP investigators believe alcohol was a factor in the collision. After receiving medical clearance, Perez was booked into the Fresno County Jail on charges of gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated and driving under the influence of alcohol causing injury. He has since posted bail.

The incident remains under investigation.

California DUI Law

Section 23153(a) of the California Vehicle Code (CVC) states that it is illegal for any driver to “Operate a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs and, as a result, cause bodily injury to someone else.”

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.

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.