Fresno County, CA (February 5, 2025) – Authorities have identified Ciriaco Santiago Gomez, 36, of Aberdeen, Washington, as the victim of a fatal hit-and-run crash in Fresno County on Wednesday night.
Accident Details: The crash occurred around 7:45 p.m. on Manning Avenue, west of Hansen Avenue. A Honda Accord was traveling eastbound on Manning Avenue at high speed when it suddenly veered onto the right shoulder and collided with multiple trees in an orange orchard. The vehicle overturned. Gomez, who was the front passenger, was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigation: The driver fled the scene on foot but was later identified and arrested as Gerardo Lopez Perez, 26, of Oaxaca, Mexico. The CHP continues investigating the incident and has urged anyone with information to contact them.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find that several aspects of this case warrant further examination. Investigators will assess whether Perez’s high speed violated traffic laws and breached his duty to drive safely. Speeding is considered negligence because it increases the risk of accidents and endangers others. By failing to drive at a safe and legal speed, Perez may have breached this duty of care. His decision to flee the scene further compounds the negligence, as hit-and-run behavior violates the legal obligation to stay, render aid, and report the crash.
The family of Ciriaco Santiago Gomez may pursue a wrongful death lawsuit against Lopez Perez. Such a claim could seek compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and emotional trauma.
I offer my heartfelt condolences to Ciriaco Santiago Gomez’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.
Source: The Fresno Bee