Fresno County, CA (April 24, 2025) – A tragic multi-vehicle collision early Thursday morning has claimed the life of a 21-year-old woman and left several others injured, according to reports from the California Highway Patrol.
Emergency responders from Fresno County were dispatched to the scene around 5:20 a.m. following a serious crash on southbound Interstate 5, just south of Highway 33. Responding paramedics and fire crews provided aid to the victims, working swiftly amid a chaotic and dangerous roadway environment.
Initial investigations revealed that 24-year-old Orlando Pinales, of San Jose, was operating a 1997 Honda Del Sol in the southbound lanes when he veered onto the right shoulder and crashed into a 2016 Nissan Rogue driven by 49-year-old Adan Delgadillo Ruiz of Truckee. The impact caused the Honda to spin uncontrollably into a travel lane while the Nissan continued along the shoulder due to the force.
Moments later, 27-year-old Manuel Berrospe of Los Banos, driving a 2021 Hyundai Sonata, collided with the rear of the spinning Honda, forcing it into a cable barrier. The dangerous chain reaction continued when a fourth vehicle, a 2002 Toyota Camry driven by 22-year-old Maria Mendoza of Mendota, struck debris from the crash, including a displaced tire from the Honda.
Tragically, a 21-year-old female passenger in the Honda suffered critical injuries and was airlifted to Community Regional Medical Center, where she later succumbed to her injuries. Another passenger from the Honda, along with other drivers involved, was transported to the same facility for medical evaluation and treatment. Their conditions have not been disclosed.
Authorities have not yet determined whether drugs or alcohol played a role in the crash. Investigators continue to gather evidence and analyze factors that may have led to the deadly sequence of events. Our thoughts are with the family of the young woman lost in this devastating incident.
Multi-Vehicle Collisions in California
High-speed corridors such as Interstate 5 are frequently the sites of multi-vehicle crashes, particularly during early morning hours when visibility and driver alertness may be compromised. The tragic crash in Fresno County highlights how quickly routine travel can turn catastrophic when vehicles occupy shoulders or make sudden lane changes.
The incident also underscores the dangers posed by chain-reaction collisions, where one impact leads to several others in quick succession. With at least four vehicles involved and debris scattered across lanes, even careful drivers like Maria Mendoza can be impacted despite not making any initial errors.
In California, the number of fatal crashes involving multiple vehicles continues to rise, often driven by a combination of speed, distraction, and misjudged maneuvers. The segment of I-5 near Highway 33 has seen a number of severe incidents over the years, indicating a need for heightened awareness and perhaps infrastructure evaluation.
When collisions involve numerous vehicles, establishing fault becomes complex. Victims and their families often require legal and medical guidance to navigate the aftermath. In this case, the fatality and multiple injuries may trigger further investigations, including a review of vehicle speeds, driver behavior, and road conditions.
As the community mourns the loss of a young life, this crash is a sobering reminder of the importance of road safety and defensive driving practices. Emergency crews, meanwhile, demonstrated coordinated response efforts, highlighting the value of timely medical intervention.
If you or someone you know has been impacted by a crash like this, it’s essential to understand the resources available.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a similar accident, Local Accident Reports is here to support you. We connect victims and families with trusted resources who can offer guidance through the medical and legal aftermath of a serious crash. Our goal is to make sure no one navigates these difficult times alone. Let us help you take the next step—contact us today for compassionate, informed assistance.
