A California man is facing multiple charges after authorities say he caused a crash that killed a mother and her young son before fleeing the scene.
Deadly Crash in Fresno
Police say the crash happened just before 2 a.m. Monday at the intersection of McKinley Avenue and State Road 41 in Fresno.
Investigators allege 22-year-old Timothy Seth Chavez caused the collision, sending another vehicle into a nearby canal. He then fled the scene on foot.
Victims Identified
The victims have been identified as 41-year-old Martha Hernandez and her 9-year-old son, Adrian Hernandez.
First responders found Martha inside the submerged vehicle and rushed her to a hospital, where she was pronounced dead.
Authorities initially did not realize Adrian was also in the car. He was swept away by the water and later found miles from the crash site.
Charges Filed
Chavez is charged with two counts of vehicular manslaughter and two counts of felony hit-and-run. He also faces charges for driving on a suspended license and driving without insurance.
Officials say he later turned himself in at the Fresno County Jail.
Family and Community Impact
Family members say Martha and Adrian were returning home from an Easter celebration at the time of the crash.
Loved ones described Adrian as a kind and active child who enjoyed school and participated in church activities with his mother.
The family is now facing both emotional and financial challenges. A fundraiser has been created to help cover funeral costs and support Martha’s older son, who is preparing to graduate from high school.
Investigation Ongoing
Authorities continue to investigate the crash and the events leading up to it.
Police say the case remains active as legal proceedings against Chavez move forward.
