Fresno, CA – On the evening of Tuesday, November 4, 2025, a pedestrian crash left 34-year-old Whallen Johnson dead after he was struck while walking in a roadway in north Fresno, according to KSEE.

The Fresno Police Department reports that the accident took place around 11:00 PM at the intersection of Herndon and Polk avenues.

Authorities said Johnson was walking in the street and not paying attention, with several vehicles swerving to avoid him before he was ultimately struck. When officers arrived, he was found unresponsive and was transported to a hospital, where he later died.

Witnesses and police noted that the driver who struck Johnson was unable to see him in time to avoid the collision. The incident highlights the dangers of pedestrians walking in active roadways and the importance of visibility and attention near traffic.

Partial Liability in Pedestrian Accidents

California Law does not consider pedestrians to have the right-of-way under all circumstances, such as if they attempt to cross outside of a crosswalk. However, motorists are never relieved of the expectation to provide pedestrians with a Duty of Care toward their safety. 

It may therefore be determined that a motorist is subject to only partial liability in a pedestrian accident. Should that be the case, they would be financially responsible for the victim’s recovery costs in proportion to their degree of liability.

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.