Prather, CA – In the early hours of Monday, February 3, 2025, a single-vehicle crash left a child injured and resulted in the death of a Squaw Valley woman identified as 30-year-old Bailie French, according to The Fresno Bee.
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) reports that the accident took place around 12:00 AM near Highway 168 and Qualls Prather Road.
Authorities were alerted after a concerned person called 911 to report that a French had not arrived home as expected after midnight. A “Be On the Lookout” alert was issued for the missing driver and vehicle.
A few hours later, officers were notified of a 7-year-old child found on the right shoulder of Highway 168. Responding officers and deputies discovered that a Subaru had veered off the roadway and overturned multiple times down an embankment.
French was found outside the Subaru and was later identified by the Fresno County Coroner. Authorities said it was unclear if she had been ejected or if she exited the vehicle after the crash.
The child suffered moderate to major injuries and was taken to Valley Children’s Hospital. CHP said the child remained at the crash site for approximately 12 hours before making his way to the highway for help. He was later reunited with his father at the hospital.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation. CHP is awaiting toxicology results to determine if alcohol or drugs played a role.
Single-Vehicle Collisions and Comparative Negligence
In some cases, investigations may reveal that even in a single-vehicle accident, nearby drivers or unsafe road features share some responsibility.
California’s Comparative Negligence rule means that, even if those injured in accidents are found partially at fault, they may still be eligible to receive partial compensation for damages. A personal injury attorney can play a critical role in sorting through these details to help victims and their families get the compensation they deserve.
If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, feel free to contact Maison Law for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.