Fresno County, CA (January 16, 2026) – The Fresno County Coroner’s Office identified Ted Amber, 87, and Sharon Amber, 86, of Clovis, as the two victims killed in a head-on crash North of Fresno on Friday morning.
Incident Details: The California Highway Patrol (CHP) reported that on Friday morning, 21-year-old Larazo Hernandez was driving a Dodge Durango on a suspended license. He was going approximately 70 mph east on Auberry Road when he approached a curve and crossed over the lane directly into the path of a Kia Soul.
The impact killed both Kia Soul occupants, Ted and Sharon Amber. They were pronounced dead at the scene. Hernandez was not injured.
Hernandez was placed under arrest, pending two counts of felony gross vehicular manslaughter.
A Drug Recognition Expert evaluation ruled out impairment in the vehicle driven by Hernandez, but noted that “marijuana and the odor of marijuana were detected inside the vehicle.”
Investigation: The CHP will continue to investigate the fatal head-on collision on Auberry Road that killed Ted and Sharon Amber. Investigators will likely focus on:
- Crash reconstruction: Determining how the Dodge Durango crossed into the oncoming lane on the curve and caused the head-on impact.
- Speed analysis: Confirming the Durango’s speed and whether it was unsafe for the roadway and curve conditions.
- Driver licensing status: Documenting the fact that Hernandez was allegedly driving on a suspended license and how that may factor into charges.
- Impairment evaluation: Reviewing the Drug Recognition Expert findings and any toxicology testing, especially given the reported marijuana odor inside the vehicle.
- Scene evidence and witnesses: Analyzing vehicle damage, debris patterns, skid marks, and witness statements to establish a clear timeline.
Together, these findings will help CHP confirm fault and support the criminal case moving forward.
Legal Considerations: Head-on crashes caused by lane departures often result in serious criminal and civil consequences. If investigators confirm Hernandez crossed into oncoming traffic while driving at an unsafe speed, he may face significant penalties, including the reported felony gross vehicular manslaughter charges.
For the Amber family, this loss is heartbreaking. A wrongful death claim may help surviving loved ones pursue compensation for funeral and burial expenses, loss of financial support, and the immeasurable loss of companionship and care Ted and Sharon provided. Civil claims may proceed separately from the criminal case and can provide a path toward accountability and financial stability.
My thoughts are with the family and loved ones of Ted and Sharon Amber as they mourn this devastating loss.
Source: Your Central Valley