A man was arrested after allegedly fleeing the scene of a suspected DUI crash and leaving a young child behind in Madera on Friday afternoon, August 8, 2025.
According to the Madera Police Department, 37-year-old Ricardo M. was driving with a young child on Gateway Drive when he lost control and crashed into a tree.
Police said Ricardo fled before officers arrived, leaving the child alone in the vehicle. The child was not seriously injured.
Officers later located Ricardo and said he showed clear signs of intoxication. A breathalyzer test indicated his blood alcohol concentration was more than twice the legal limit.
Ricardo was arrested and booked into Madera County Jail on multiple charges, including DUI, hit-and-run, and child endangerment.
The investigation is ongoing.
Don’t Know What To Do After An Accident?
Your safety and rights depend on what you do next after an accident. Remember the following steps if you find yourself in one:
- Check yourself for any injuries.
- Stay on the scene, call 9-1-1, and wait for emergency responders.
- Move your vehicle to the road shoulder if safe; turn on hazard lights.
- Fully cooperate with law enforcement and stay until cleared to leave.
- Document the scene and injuries with photos and videos.
- Seek immediate medical attention.
- Contact your insurance company and find a personal injury lawyer for legal advice.
What A Lawyer Can Do For You
Many victims put off calling a lawyer even if they sustain injuries after an accident. However, lawyers can help you in many ways. They can provide you with police reports, CCTV footage, and witness statements to strengthen your case. Your attorney will also negotiate with insurance companies to get you fair compensation. The best part is that they will do all of these things for you at no upfront cost. So if you’re injured in an accident, hire a personal injury attorney to recover medical bills, car repair costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.