Fresno County, CA – A multi-vehicle collision on Saturday night, May 18, 2024, resulted in the death of a Texas missionary, 65-year-old Mary Hardin of Helotes, and the arrest of 54-year-old David Alvarado of Madera on suspicion of driving under the influence, according to KSEE.
California Highway Patrol (CHP) officers responded to reports of a three-car collision around 8:30 PM, south of Easton at the intersection of Highway 41 and Manning Avenue. Their investigation revealed that a Ford F250, driven by Alvarado, was traveling north on Highway 41 when it struck a Nissan Sentra, carrying Mary Hardin and her 69-year-old husband Paul. The impact pushed the Sentra into the rear of a Chevrolet Camaro in front of it, crushing those inside.
Mary Hardin succumbed to her injuries at the scene, and her husband Paul sustained major injuries, while the Camaro driver, 31-year-old Mark Anthony Rivera of Fresno, received minor injuries. Alvarado also sustained minor injuries. All three men received transportation to a local hospital for treatment.
Following medical evaluation, Alvarado was arrested and booked on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol. The CHP continues to investigate the crash, seeking to provide clarity and closure for those affected by this devastating event.
Wrongful Death Claims
Whether or not a crash results in criminal charges for one of those involved, families who have lost a loved one in a fatal collision may be able to file a wrongful death claim with the insurance provider of the at-fault driver.
The compensation provided by a wrongful death claim can relieve the financial burdens created by medical expenses, burial costs, and the loss of income to support any dependents of the deceased.
Insurance companies will work to reduce any claim they cannot deny, which is where the help of a knowledgeable personal injury attorney can prove invaluable by negotiating on behalf of victims and their families to ensure they receive proper compensation.
