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In a tragic turn of events in Fresno, California, a suspect has been apprehended following a fatal crash that claimed the lives of Martha and Adrian Hernandez earlier this week. The incident unfolded on Monday, leaving a community in mourning.
Late on Monday night, nearly a day after the accident, Timothy Seth Chavez surrendered to authorities. This act of turning himself in came after police launched an investigation into the crash, which they suspect was caused by Chavez running a red light. This reckless maneuver allegedly led to a violent collision with an SUV, sending the vehicle careening into the Dry Creek Canal.
Chavez’s decision to initially flee the scene has drawn criticism, but legal experts note the importance of his eventual surrender. “Turning himself in is always good,” commented KFSN Legal Analyst Tony Capozzi. “Running away is not advisable unless there are specific circumstances one might be trying to avoid.”
As the investigation continues, Chavez is facing serious charges that include vehicular manslaughter, hit-and-run, and driving with a suspended license as well as without insurance. The case underscores the severe consequences of irresponsible driving and the legal repercussions that follow.
Potential charges for Chavez include vehicular manslaughter, hit-and-run, and driving with a suspended license and without insurance.
“He’s looking at least six years, and by running away, that adds a consecutive sentence of at least five,” Capozzi said.
Capozzi says Chavez’s criminal record shows at least six driving infractions.
A witness told police Chavez appeared drunk at the scene.
“Running away from the accident is going to prevent anyone from investigating, requiring a breathalyzer, requiring him to take a blood test,” Capozzi said. “So there’s no way for the police to determine whether or not he was under the influence.”
With Chavez in jail, flowers and candles now mark the crash site as the community remembers the young boy and his 41-year-old mother.
Friends on social media know the mom as Patty. She was a nail tech in Old Town Clovis.
“This was my niece’s co-worker,” a woman wrote on Instagram. “My niece said she always inspired her to be a great nail tech.”
The mother and her son were driving home from an Easter celebration with family when they lost their lives.
The legal process is now expected to take months.
“An investigation may still be going on, and even after the charges are filed by the DA, there may be additional charges if there’s additional investigation,” Capozzi said.
The Fresno County District Attorney’s Office has until Thursday to formally file charges.
As of Tuesday afternoon, county prosecutors are still waiting to receive the case from police.
Martha’s family has set up a GoFundMe; you can find that link here.
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