Mecca, CA (March 7, 2025) – A tragic two-vehicle collision near Mecca claimed the lives of 52-year-old Yolanda Villanueva Cisneros and 55-year-old Fernando Villanueva Alvarado, according to the Riverside County Coroner’s Office.
Accident Details: The fatal crash occurred around 10:15 a.m. at the intersection of 68th Avenue and Grant Street. Authorities say Cisneros and Alvarado were traveling westbound on 68th Avenue in a black Toyota Tundra when their vehicle collided with a red Toyota Tacoma heading north on Grant Street. The impact caused the Tundra to overturn and strike a power pole.
The 25-year-old man driving the Tacoma sustained minor injuries, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP). Investigators have not yet determined the cause of the crash, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Investigation and Legal Considerations: At intersections, determining which driver had the right-of-way is critical. Investigators will assess whether either vehicle failed to yield or misjudged the other driver’s speed. Grant Street has a stop sign on both sides of the intersection with 68th Street, while the latter does not. Therefore, investigators must determine if the Tacoma stopped before proceeding through the intersection.
CHP will also examine whether speed, road conditions, or visibility issues contributed to the crash. Intersections with limited sightlines, high speeds, or failure to use turn signals can increase the risk of severe collisions.
If negligence is found to have contributed to the crash, the families of Cisneros and Alvarado may have grounds to pursue a wrongful death claim.
I extend my deepest sympathies to the families and loved ones of Yolanda Villanueva Cisneros and Fernando Villanueva Alvarado.
Source: Desert Sun