Santa Rosa, CA – According to KRON, beloved Cardinal Newman High School teacher Pat LaFortune lost his life in a devastating multi-vehicle collision on Highway 12 on Thursday, August 29, 2024. The accident occurred around 11:50 AM on Highway 12 near Fulton Road, a busy area where traffic often slows at the intersection.
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) reports that the accident involved a dump truck that failed to stop as it approached a red light. The truck collided with the rear of a line of vehicles, setting off a chain reaction that ultimately involved nearly a dozen vehicles. LaFortune, who was driving a pickup truck, was one of the unfortunate victims in this tragic sequence of events. His vehicle was among those that caught fire due to the impact.
LaFortune, a resident of Santa Rosa, began his career at Cardinal Newman High School in 1973. He taught social studies and coached various sports track and field, cross country, baseball, and football.
The school honored his commitment by naming its track after LaFortune when he reached his 40th work anniversary. His dedication to his students and service to the nation as an Army medic during the Vietnam War leave a legacy that will be cherished for years to come.
The collision resulted in injuries to nine others, three of whom suffered major injuries. The injured were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment. The extent of their injuries varies, but none are reported to be life-threatening.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation, and authorities have not yet determined whether alcohol or drugs played a role in the incident.
Wrongful Death Claims
While no amount of money can bring back loved ones lost in a vehicular fatality, the emotional toll of such a loss is often compounded by the financial burden that falls on surviving family members.
Filing a Wrongful Death claim with the insurance provider of those who bear even partial liability can provide compensation to help cover medical expenses, burial costs, and the loss of support for the deceased’s dependents.
Insurance companies have a vested interest in minimizing the payouts for claims. Therefore, the expertise of a skilled personal injury attorney is crucial in securing fair compensation and justice for the deceased.
