Fresno County, CA (December 5, 2023) Mother and daughter, Gloria Jamie Barajas (55) and Brenda Quinonez (35), were killed in a suspected DUI collision in Fresno County on Sunday, December 3rd, according to the California Highway Patrol. The fatal accident occurred on Road 56 near Reedley, shortly after 6:00 p.m.Two other people were critically injured in this collision as well, authorities said.
A white Ford pickup truck, driven by 43-year-old Blake Benham, drifted into oncoming traffic and hit a blue Nissan Rogue SUV head-on, according to police officers. The Nissan had 4 occupants, including the mother and daughter, both from Reedley, who were killed.
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Emergency crews arrived and found the 4 victims in bad shape. Barajas and her daugher, Quinonez, were both pronounced dead at the scene. The two other occupants in the SUV both sustained serious injuries in the crash. Paramedics rushed them to Community Regional Medical Center via ambulance to receive treatment. They were said to be in critical condition, according to medical personnel.
Benham received minor injuries in the crash and was treated at the scene by paramedics. He was later arrested and booked into the Tulare County Pre-Trial Facility where he faces charges of manslaughter and driving under the influence.
A tow truck was called to remove at least one of the vehicles from the scene and crews worked to clean the glass and debris from the area as quickly as possible. It was a tragedy that could have been avoided and our hearts go out to the families and friends who lost pieces of their hearts in this fatal Fresno County collision.
Who Is At Fault In a Fresno County DUI Accident
It is illegal to operate a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Pursuant to California Vehicle Code 23152, “(a) It is unlawful for a person who is under the influence of any alcoholic beverage to drive a vehicle. (b) It is unlawful for a person who has 0.08 percent or more, by weight, of alcohol in his or her blood to drive a vehicle.” Even small amounts of alcohol can substantially impair drivers in the following ways: delayed reaction times, impaired judgment, lowered alertness and loss of muscle control.
The family of any victim that has been injured or killed in a collision with a drunk driver may have legal recourse through a bodily injury or wrongful death claim. Damages in a civil claim can help cover lost wages, medical bills and pain and suffering. A wrongful death attorney can examine all of the unique facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.
Investigating A Fresno County DUI Car Accident
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the families of Gloria Barajas and Brenda Quinonez during this difficult time. Any person who may have information about what happened should reach out to the police. A thorough investigation must be conducted for the sake of all who have lost so much.
Do you need more information about an accident that took place in Fresno County? There are a number of laws designed to protect your rights. Our team of personal injury attorneys are here to answer any questions that you may have. Whether you just have legal questions or need more information about an accident we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (844) 966-0965.
