Fresno, CA (June 9, 2026) – A pedestrian was hit by a vehicle Tuesday afternoon, June 9, along eastbound SR-168 just east of Ashlan Avenue in Fresno.
According to the California Highway Patrol reports, the person was attempting to cross lanes of traffic around 2:32 p.m. when the vehicle struck him. Dispatch logs indicated the man rolled onto the right shoulder after being hit. A white Toyota SUV involved in the crash pulled over nearby.
Witnesses stated the man later moved through traffic lanes and the center divider while several drivers braked suddenly to avoid him. One caller reported the pedestrian approached a white Infiniti QX SUV and tore off a side mirror before running back toward the freeway lanes. Another report indicated someone in another vehicle had attempted to chase him.
Emergency units later made contact with the man and directed him away from the freeway. No details about possible injuries or the identities of those involved had been released.
The cause of the accident remains under review as investigators continue gathering information.
We hope the injured pedestrian receives the support they need.
Why Pedestrian Freeway Encounters Are Especially Dangerous
Pedestrian activity on freeways creates serious risks because drivers typically travel at high speeds and have little time to react. Even brief moments of confusion or sudden movement near traffic lanes can lead to chain-reaction braking or secondary crashes involving multiple vehicles.
Many freeway pedestrian situations also involve unpredictable behavior, including attempts to cross active lanes or interactions with stopped drivers. In these situations, visibility, traffic flow, and driver reaction times become major safety concerns. Sudden stops can increase the chance of rear-end crashes, especially during busy travel periods.
Vehicle damage may also occur when drivers try to avoid someone in the roadway or when a pedestrian comes into contact with nearby vehicles. Early reports in these cases often change as more witness statements and roadway evidence are reviewed.
