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The aftermath of a deadly hit-and-run crash that claimed the lives of a mother and her young son, exposing the tragic human cost of reckless driving.Fresno Today
A vigil was held in Old Town Clovis on Tuesday night to mourn the deaths of Martha Hernandez and her 9-year-old son Adrian, who were killed in a hit-and-run crash in central Fresno. The mother and son were driving home from an Easter celebration when their car was struck by an SUV, sending them into a canal. The 22-year-old suspected driver, Timothy Chavez, later turned himself in to police.
Why it matters
This tragic incident has devastated the Clovis community, where Hernandez was a beloved nail artist and her son was a beloved student. The case highlights the dangers of hit-and-run crashes and the need for greater road safety measures, particularly in areas with high pedestrian and vehicle traffic.
The details
According to police, Chavez ran a red light and crashed into Hernandez and her son’s car, sending it into the Dry Creek Canal. Hernandez, known as ‘Miss Patty’ at her salon, and her 9-year-old son Adrian were killed in the collision. Chavez initially fled the scene but later turned himself in to the Fresno County Jail. He could face charges including vehicular manslaughter, hit-and-run, driving with a suspended license, and driving without insurance.
The incident occurred the morning after Easter Sunday.Chavez turned himself in to police shortly after the crash.
The players
Martha Hernandez
A beloved nail artist at Chosen Salon in Old Town Clovis, known for her kind and caring nature.
Adrian Hernandez
Martha’s 9-year-old son, a beloved student at Tarpey Elementary School known for his bright and kind personality.
Timothy Chavez
The 22-year-old suspected driver who ran a red light and crashed into the Hernandez vehicle, leading to their deaths.
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What they’re saying
“She’s a beautiful soul, and it does bring me peace knowing she’s with the Lord now and so is her baby.”
— Hernandez’s coworker
“I would come in and we would just talk. She would know what words to say. She loved her boys. Her boys were her everything.”
— Hernandez’s client
“My fondest memory of him is doing an art project with him, and it’s a dream door, and what was inside his dream door was him and his mom and saying that his dream was to always be with his mom.”
— Adrian’s teacher
What’s next
Police continue to investigate the incident, and the family has set up a GoFundMe page to help cover funeral expenses.
The takeaway
This tragic loss of life highlights the need for greater road safety measures and accountability for drivers who engage in reckless behavior, putting innocent lives at risk. The Clovis community has come together to mourn the Hernandez family and support those left behind.