[04-19-2024] Fresno County, CA – Three People Killed, Four Hospitalized Following Two-Vehicle Crash in Hwy 41 Near Caruthers

Three people were killed, while four others were hospitalized, including a child, following a two-vehicle crash near Caruthers, Fresno County, on Friday evening, April 19, 2024.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the fatal collision happened around 7:00 p.m. at the intersection of southbound Highway 41 and East Nebraska Avenue.

CHP’s report indicated that the crash involved a Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck and a Dodge pickup truck with a fifth-wheel travel trailer. It said that the Chevy crossed the highway intersection without stopping at the posted stop sign, leading to it colliding with the Dodge. The impact of the collision threw both vehicles down a nearby embankment.

Four people were inside the Chevy, one man and three women. Its driver, 57-year-old Mark B. from Fresno, was killed in the crash after being ejected from the vehicle. Two of the three female passengers suffered the same fate: 18-year-old Blanca M from Selma and 17-year-old Dezirae P. from Fresno.

The fourth person in the Chevy lived but sustained major injuries. She was airlifted to CRMC for treatment. Her current condition is not disclosed at this time.

Meanwhile, the Dodge pickup had three people inside when the accident occurred: two adult males, one in their 30s and the other in their 40s, and a 4-year-old child. All of them survived the incident and were transported to local hospitals for further medical care.

CHP is still investigating the cause of the crash and if drugs or alcohol impairment played a factor in the collision.

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.