FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) — A Wednesday morning crash in Fresno County claimed the life of a 28-year-old woman and a two-year-old girl.
The California Highway Patrol says the preliminary investigation shows the female driver of a Honda Civic was likely speeding when she ran a stop sign on Jefferson and Walnut Avenues near Easton.
The woman was traveling north and crashed into a Chevy Tahoe going east.
The Fresno CHP says the toddler in the Honda was partially ejected and was not in a car seat.
Investigators also believe neither was wearing a seatbelt.
“Such heart-wrenching feelings that go through emotions for the first responders. We can’t say it loud enough: wear your seatbelts. If you have children that need to be in car seats, please do that,” expresses California Highway Patrol Officer Mike Salas.
Two teen boys, ages 16 and 17, in the Chevy were sent to the hospital.
They are expected to survive with moderate injuries.
Neighbors saw the aftermath of the crash, including Aiden Wettlaufer, who was heartbroken by what he witnessed outside his home.
“I ran outside, and the first thing I saw as I got to the blue car was a little toddler ejected from the car,” Aiden continues. “That was horrible. That was really sad. I have no words about that.”
This crash is one of multiple deadly crashes in the last few years, including a friend of Aiden’s several years ago.
Neighbors are urging drivers to be safe and asking their local leaders for changes to be made.
“To see all of the people out here that are dying, it’s just horrible. I mean, there’s got to be some type of change, like I said, with deflective stop signs or reflective before you stop,” expresses Aiden.
One county supervisor’s officer mentioned their roads division has been made aware of the crash and concerns by neighbors. They say the next possible step could be a safety study on the intersection.
CHP shares that if you’re in need of assistance getting a car seat for your child, they encourage you to reach out to local law enforcement for help.
The California Highway Patrol is still investigating what led up to the crash.
