Fresno, CA – Authorities have identified Victor Thomas Jr., 42, of Fresno as the pedestrian who was fatally injured in a vehicle collision on the morning of Monday, April 21, 2025, according to The Fresno Bee.
The Fresno Police Department reports that the accident took place shortly after 5:30 AM near the intersection of Olive and Chestnut Avenues.
Officers arriving at the scene found a male pedestrian in the roadway. He was transported to Community Regional Medical Center, where he underwent emergency surgery but died during the procedure.
Police say the driver involved in the incident initially left the scene but returned later and is cooperating with the investigation. It is not currently known how long the driver was gone before returning or whether any charges will be filed.
The collision remains under investigation as officials work to determine the cause and the events leading up to the fatal impact.
California Hit-and-Run Laws
California Law requires drivers involved in a collision to stop their vehicle, notify law enforcement, and exchange insurance information with others involved. Failure to do so, considered to be a “hit-and-run,” is a misdemeanor in cases of property damage and a felony when someone has been injured.
Duty of Care Toward Pedestrians
Drivers have a Duty of Care towards pedestrians, who are particularly vulnerable in traffic accidents. This responsibility includes being vigilant for pedestrians near the roadway and, if a collision occurs, staying with the victim to ensure they get proper medical treatment and cooperating with authorities investigating the crash.
For those injured in a pedestrian accident, filing a Personal Injury Claim with the assistance of an experienced attorney can provide compensation for medical bills and other related damages. Should the at-fault driver avoid legal consequences, compensation might still be available through a family member’s uninsured driver coverage.
