Lemoore Station, CA (May 26, 2024) – A devastating car crash early Sunday morning in Kings County resulted in the death of one man and serious injuries to two others, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP).
Incident Details: The accident occurred around 2:15 a.m. on Avenal Cutoff Road, just south of 25th Avenue. According to authorities, 23-year-old Fernando Mondragon of Fresno, driving a 2024 blue Chevrolet Malibu northbound, reportedly crossed the center divide and collided head-on with a white 2016 Ford F-150 traveling southbound. The driver of the Ford, identified as 51-year-old Victor Soto, Jr. from Visalia, sustained major injuries in the collision and was airlifted to a nearby hospital by Skylife medical helicopter service. Mondragon was pronounced dead at the scene. Additionally, 20-year-old Taeshon Ogan of Fresno, a passenger in the Malibu, also suffered major injuries and was airlifted to another area hospital for urgent care. CHP is actively investigating the cause of the crash, including why the driver of the Malibu crossed into oncoming traffic. Authorities have not yet determined whether drugs or alcohol were factors in this tragic incident.
Legal Implications: This accident may have significant legal ramifications depending on the outcome of the investigation. If it is determined that negligent or reckless driving was a factor, there could be grounds for wrongful death and personal injury claims by the victims’ families. Such legal actions could provide compensation for medical expenses, funeral costs, loss of income, and other related damages.
My deepest sympathies go out to the family and friends of the deceased, and I hope for a speedy recovery for the injured survivors. I hope the investigation reveals more information about the cause of the crash.
Sources: KSEE, Fresno Bee