Madera County, CA – On the evening of Saturday, September 13, 2025, Serenity Valenzuela, 6, Jezreel Ochoa-Valle, 17, and James Valle, 15, died in a two-vehicle collision involving a van and a big rig that also left several others injured, according to KSEE.
The California Highway Patrol reports that the accident took place around 6:00 PM at the intersection of Road 24 and Avenue 7, west of Ripperdan.
Investigators said a van carrying five occupants traveled southbound on Road 24 toward a stop sign as a big rig hauling two trailers moved westbound on Avenue 7. The van entered the intersection in front of the truck, which struck the vehicle with heavy impact.
The crash ejected James and Serenity from the van. James died at the scene from his injuries. Paramedics transported Serenity to Valley Children’s Hospital, where she died after arrival. Jezreel suffered critical injuries in the collision. Emergency personnel transported her to a hospital, where she died later that night.
Three other van occupants survived with injuries described as moderate to major. Officials confirmed that they remain hospitalized. The big rig driver also sustained injuries and received treatment at a local hospital. CHP said his condition was not life-threatening.
Fire crews assisted with medical response and cleared the roadway. Tow operators removed both the van and the big rig before the intersection reopened several hours later.
CHP investigators said alcohol and drugs did not contribute to the crash. The case remains under investigation as officers work to determine why the van failed to stop.
A GoFundMe has been opened to raise money for funeral services for the victims.
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.
Comparative Negligence
California Law upholds the concept of Comparative Negligence, which allows more than one party to share blame in a personal injury accident. Injured victims may have their compensation reduced if they are found partially responsible.
Madera Wrongful Death Lawyer
If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, contact a Madera Wrongful Death Lawyer for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.
