Hanford, CA (December 8, 2024) – On December 8, 2024, 43-year-old Kellie Rivera tragically lost her life in a crash at Fargo and 13th Avenue in Hanford.
Accident Details: Rivera was driving north on 13th Avenue and stopped at a four-way stop intersection with Fargo. Authorities allege that the other driver, 35-year-old Philip Andrew Macias Chavez, was speeding and under the influence. He failed to stop at a four-way stop sign and hit Rivera as she entered the intersection. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) has recommended murder charges against Macias Chavez, citing his prior DUI conviction.
This heartbreaking event has left Kellie’s family, friends, and community grappling with an unimaginable loss. She is remembered as a devoted wife, a loving mother to her four children, and a cherished veterinary assistant whose kindness touched many lives. A GoFundMe account has been set up to help her family with final expenses. Please contribute if you can.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find that several aspects of this case warrant further examination. Driving under the influence breaches every driver’s legal duty to operate their vehicle safely and responsibly. This duty includes ensuring they can make sound judgments and react appropriately to road conditions. When someone chooses to drive impaired, they disregard this obligation, increasing the likelihood of accidents and injuries. Such behavior often constitutes negligence, as it directly endangers others on the road.
If negligence is found, her family may be able to file a wrongful death claim, allowing them to seek compensation for losses such as funeral expenses, loss of income, and emotional suffering.
My sincerest condolences are with the family and friends of Kellie Rivera during this difficult time.
Source: ABC 30