(Fresno, CA) A 15-year-old boy, identified as Nathan Torres, lost his life Monday evening in an Olive Avenue crash that devastated his family and community.
On Monday, September 29, just before 6:00 p.m., Fresno police officers responded to Olive Avenue and Angus Street after reports of a collision involving a teenager and a vehicle. When officers arrived, they found Nathan Torres suffering from severe injuries. Paramedics rushed him to Community Regional Medical Center. Despite life-saving efforts, doctors pronounced him dead shortly after arrival.
Authorities said Torres, a student at McLane High School, had been riding in the No. 1 lane of westbound Olive Avenue when the vehicle struck him. Police confirmed that the driver stayed at the scene and cooperated with the investigation. Officials added that alcohol and drugs do not appear to be factors. The Olive Avenue crash remains under review.
Torres’s family set up a GoFundMe page to help cover funeral expenses.
Legal Opinion on the Olive Avenue Crash
This heartbreaking case touches on several important aspects of California law. Even without DUI or reckless driving, questions of duty, safety, and liability must be examined. Vehicle Code 22350 sets the standard for safe driving speed. It requires drivers to travel at a speed that is reasonable given road, traffic, and visibility conditions. Investigators will consider whether the driver could have slowed or taken steps to prevent the collision.
Pedestrian and cyclist safety laws also apply. Vehicle Code 21954 requires those outside of crosswalks to yield to vehicles, but it also makes clear that drivers must use due care to avoid a collision. Even if Torres was not in a crosswalk, the law still placed responsibility on the driver to exercise caution.
How Nathan Torres’ Family Can Handle This
The loss of Nathan Torres is tragic, especially for someone so young. His family may pursue a wrongful death claim, which can provide compensation for funeral expenses, emotional suffering, and the loss of his companionship and future contributions.
Since the driver stayed at the scene, insurance coverage will be important. The family can seek compensation through the driver’s insurance, and in some cases, their own policy may also provide additional coverage.
Time is critical in these situations. Preserving police reports, accident scene details, and witness statements will help clarify what happened. A skilled attorney can guide the family through these steps, ensuring their rights are fully protected during such a painful time.
The Olive Avenue crash that claimed the life of Nathan Torres is a reminder of how fragile life is, and why families deserve support and justice after sudden loss.
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the family of the victim. We know this is a difficult time as you mourn the tragic and sudden loss of a loved one. If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this horrible incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.
