Fresno County, CA (January 2, 2026) – A tragic crash claimed the life of 19-year-old Mattix Salmon of Kingsburg on Monday evening after his pickup truck was struck by a semi-truck in Fresno County, according to authorities.
The deadly collision occurred shortly after 6:30 p.m. near the intersection of Manning Ave and Riverside Ave. Investigators reported that a big rig driven by Marlon Tavarez of San Joaquin was traveling eastbound on Manning Ave when it veered into the opposite lane and sideswiped a westbound Chevrolet Silverado driven by Salmon.
The force of the impact caused the pickup to veer off the roadway and overturn several times before coming to rest on its roof. Emergency responders arrived at the scene and confirmed that Salmon had died from injuries sustained in the crash.
Tavarez was uninjured and remained at the scene following the incident. Authorities stated that drugs and alcohol do not appear to have been factors in the crash.
The California Highway Patrol is continuing its investigation into what caused the semi-truck to cross into oncoming traffic.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Mattix Salmon during this incredibly difficult time.
