Fresno, CA – In the early hours of Saturday, October 25, 2025, a hit-and-run collision claimed the life of 47-year-old Bernardino Valencia Valle, according to KSEE.
The Fresno Police Department reports that the accident took place around 1:30 AM near Jensen Avenue and Elm Avenue.
Authorities say Valle was crossing the roadway when he appeared to have been struck by a vehicle driven by 20-year-old Brian Jaramillo Munoz. An officer who witnessed the impact observed that Munoz failed to stop after the collision. The officer pursued and detained the driver at the Highway 41 overpass while other units arrived to assist the injured pedestrian.
Responding officers and medical personnel provided aid, but Valle succumbed to his injuries at the scene. Following the stop, investigators determined that Munoz was under the influence of alcohol and did not possess a valid driver’s license.
Police arrested Munoz and booked him into the Fresno County Jail on multiple charges, including gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, DUI causing injury, hit-and-run, and enhancements for causing great bodily injury during the commission of a felony.
Authorities emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing as they continue to review evidence from the crash and subsequent arrest.
California Hit-and-Run Laws
California Law requires drivers involved in a collision to stop their vehicle, notify law enforcement, and exchange insurance information with others involved. Failure to do so, considered to be a “hit-and-run,” is a misdemeanor in cases of property damage and a felony when someone has been injured.
Pedestrian Fatalities and Wrongful Death Claims
Drivers have a Duty of Care towards pedestrians, which includes being vigilant for those travelling by foot and, if a collision occurs, staying with the victim, alerting emergency responders, and cooperating with authorities investigating the crash.
For those who lose a loved one in a pedestrian accident, filing a Wrongful Death claim with the assistance of an experienced attorney can provide compensation for medical bills, funeral costs, and other related damages.
Should the at-fault driver avoid legal consequences, compensation might still be available through a family member’s uninsured driver coverage. Consulting with a personal injury attorney can help determine the best options in such cases.
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.
