Fresno County, California (September 14, 2025) — Authorities have identified the man killed in a Sunday morning collision northeast of Reedley as 28-year-old Victor Reyes Jr. of Reedley. According to the California Highway Patrol, the crash occurred just after 8:30 a.m. on American Avenue near Navelencia Avenue and left one other person injured.
Incident Details: CHP investigators report that Reyes Jr. was driving westbound on American Avenue when, for reasons that remain under investigation, his vehicle moved into the path of an oncoming camper van traveling eastbound. Despite the camper driver’s attempt to brake, the vehicles collided head-on. Emergency responders arrived quickly, but Reyes Jr. was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the camper van sustained moderate injuries and received medical treatment. CHP indicated that alcohol or drugs are not believed to be factors in this crash. Officials emphasized that both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the collision.
Investigation: The California Highway Patrol is continuing to examine the sequence of events that led to the fatal impact. As part of their standard process, investigators will analyze roadway evidence, skid and yaw marks, vehicle damage profiles, and any available witness statements or nearby surveillance footage. They will also assess whether driver distraction, fatigue, or a sudden medical issue may have contributed to the westbound vehicle’s lane departure. Mechanical inspections of both vehicles may be conducted to rule out equipment failure. Once the investigation is complete, CHP will determine whether additional findings or safety recommendations are warranted for this stretch of American Avenue near Navelencia Avenue.
Head-on collisions on rural arterials like American Avenue can be especially devastating due to closing speeds and limited separation between opposing traffic. Even with proper restraints, the forces involved in a frontal impact at roadway speeds often result in catastrophic injuries. In the aftermath of a fatal crash, families commonly seek answers about causation, while investigators focus on reconstructing the incident as precisely as possible to understand how and why it occurred.
I extend my deepest condolences to the family and friends of Victor Reyes Jr. during this difficult time.
Source: ABC30