Fresno, CA (January 6, 2025) – On Monday evening, January 6, 2025, a suspected DUI crash at the intersection of Belmont and Palm in central Fresno tragically claimed the lives of Robert Castro Ruiz, 71, and Raymond Leigh Sandoval, 62.
Accident Details: Authorities have filed multiple charges, including two counts of murder, against 36-year-old Joal Campbell, the driver allegedly responsible for the fatal collision. According to Fresno police, Campbell was driving a black truck with its headlights off when he ran a red light and collided with a gold truck. Surveillance cameras recorded the crash from a nearby business. Investigators report that Campbell’s blood-alcohol level was nearly three times the legal limit and also contained methamphetamine and THC.
This incident is not Campbell’s first encounter with DUI charges. He was convicted of a DUI in 2010 and was wanted for a violation stemming from a 2021 DUI arrest. If convicted on the current charges, Campbell faces a maximum sentence of 10 years plus 60 years to life in state prison.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find that several aspects of this case warrant further examination. California law obligates all drivers to operate their vehicles safely and responsibly. DUI breaches that duty by impairing a driver’s ability to make sound decisions, react appropriately, and control their vehicle. By choosing to drive while impaired, Campbell breached his duty of care by disregarding the safety of others. Running a red light also adds to Campbell’s breach of duty.
Families of the victims may be able to pursue wrongful death claims against Campbell. Such claims can help provide financial compensation for funeral costs, loss of companionship, and emotional suffering caused by this preventable tragedy.
My deepest condolences go out to the families of Robert Castro Ruiz and Raymond Leigh Sandoval during this challenging time.
Source: ABC 30