Bakersfield, CA – According to KGET, prosecutors have charged 33-year-old William Largent with murder and gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated after he allegedly struck and killed a pedestrian as part of a multi-vehicle collision on July 4, 2024. Largent is scheduled to be arraigned on August 12, facing additional charges of DUI causing injury.
The Kern County Coroner’s Office has identified the pedestrian as Chad Anthony Jacques, 48, of Bakersfield. The incident occurred around 8:40 PM at the intersection of 24th and Oak Streets, a busy area known for its traffic and numerous intersections.
According to police reports, officers were dispatched to the scene following reports of a severe collision around 8:40 PM. They found Jacques down in the roadway and several damaged vehicles nearby. Investigations revealed that Jacques had been standing on the center divider of Oak Street when the vehicle, allegedly driven by Largent, attempted to turn east onto 24th Street.
Largent’s vehicle reportedly ran over the center divider, striking Jacques before colliding with four additional vehicles on westbound 24th Street. Despite immediate medical attention, Jacques was pronounced dead at the scene. One of the drivers involved in the subsequent collisions sustained minor injuries and was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.
The Bakersfield Police Department’s investigation determined that Largent was driving under the influence at the time of the accident. He was arrested and booked into the Kern County Jail shortly after the incident. Authorities have stated that all other drivers involved in the multi-vehicle collision remained at the scene and cooperated with law enforcement officers.
Wrongful Death Claims
Whether or not a collision results in criminal charges for any 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 needed to support the deceased’s dependents.
Insurance companies will work to reduce any claim they cannot deny. This is where the help of a knowledgeable personal injury attorney proves invaluable, negotiating on behalf of victims and their families to ensure they receive proper compensation.
