Fresno, CA (December 28, 2024) – On Saturday, December 28, 2024, at approximately 7:20 a.m., a fatal wrong-way crash occurred on Highway 99 near Shaw Avenue in Fresno.
Accident Details: Authorities report that 64-year-old Paul Weldon, driving a Lexus sedan northbound in the southbound lanes, collided head-on with a Ford F-150. The pickup, driven by a 47-year-old man, carried five passengers. The collision caused significant damage, sending both vehicles into a Honda Civic driven by a 26-year-old. Tragically, Weldon and 73-year-old Mariana Perez Tinajero of Selma, a passenger in the F-150, were pronounced dead at the scene. The other F-150 passengers sustained various injuries ranging from moderate to major and were transported to Community Regional Medical Center. The driver of the Honda Civic was treated at the scene for minor injuries.
Investigation: Toxicology results for Weldon are pending, and investigators are working to determine if alcohol or drugs played a role in the crash.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find that several aspects of this case warrant further examination. Investigators must determine what caused Paul Weldon to drive the wrong way on Highway 99. Was he impaired by alcohol or drugs? Did his vehicle experience a mechanical malfunction? Were defective road conditions a contributing factor? Identifying these underlying causes is essential for determining liability.
Depending on the findings, the families of both Weldon (if other parties are found responsible) and Mariana Perez Tinajero may be able to pursue wrongful death claims. These claims would focus on holding negligent parties accountable for their roles in this fatal collision.
Additionally, individuals injured in the crash may be able to bring personal injury claims to recover damages for medical expenses, pain, and other losses stemming from the incident.
I extend my sincerest thoughts to all those affected by this tragedy.
Source: ABC 30