Fresno, CA – A man who lost his life after being struck by a vehicle in a central Fresno alley on Sunday afternoon, October 6, 2024, has been identified as 64-year-old Ernest Yetter, according to ABC30.
The Fresno Police Department reports that Yetter had been lying in the alley near Abby and Belmont Avenues.
According to authorities, Yetter was reportedly intoxicated and passed out on the ground when a red Buick drove into the alley. The vehicle ran over Yetter, who was unable to move from his position. Officers say the driver initially stopped but then left the scene shortly afterward.
Emergency responders pronounced Yetter dead at the scene. Officers quickly located the red Buick parked at a nearby church. According to the police, the driver of the car has been cooperating with the investigation. At this time, no arrest has been made, and authorities are continuing their inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the accident.
Police have not yet disclosed whether any charges will be filed as the investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information about the incident is encouraged to contact the Fresno Police Department to assist in the investigation.
Wrongful Death Claims in Hit-and-Runs
The compensation provided by a Wrongful Death Claim can financially support families grieving the loss of a loved one due to another person’s negligence. These funds can go toward hospital bills and burial expenses, as well as help to support any dependents of the deceased.
In cases where the at-fault party escapes justice, families may still be able to pursue compensation through their own uninsured driver coverage. A personal injury attorney can offer guidance on what options they may have available and negotiate with insurance companies to ensure that victims receive the best settlement possible.
Partial Liability in Pedestrian Accidents
California Law does not consider pedestrians to have the right-of-way under all circumstances, such as if they attempt to cross outside of a crosswalk. However, motorists are never relieved of the expectation to provide pedestrians with a Duty of Care toward their safety.
It may therefore be determined that a motorist is held only partially liable in a pedestrian accident. If that is the case, they would be financially responsible for the victim’s recovery costs in proportion to their degree of liability.
