A heartbreaking incident in Fresno has left a family shattered after a hit-and-run crash claimed the lives of a mother and her young son.
Authorities say 22-year-old Timothy Seth Chavez is facing multiple charges, including vehicular manslaughter and felony hit-and-run, after allegedly causing a crash that sent a vehicle into a canal early Monday morning.
Inside the car were 41-year-old Martha Hernandez and her 9-year-old son Adrian Hernandez. The two were returning home from an Easter celebration when their vehicle was struck and forced into the water.
First responders were able to locate Martha Hernandez in the submerged car and rushed her to a nearby hospital, where she was later pronounced dead. At the time, responders were unaware that her son had also been in the vehicle.
Hours later, Adrian’s body was tragically found miles away, having been swept by the canal’s current.
Family members described Adrian as a kind and joyful child who loved school and was deeply involved in church activities with his mother. The loss has been especially devastating for the family’s older son, who now faces graduation without them.
Authorities say Chavez fled the scene on foot and later turned himself in. The case has sparked outrage and grief, with loved ones expressing pain over what they describe as a complete lack of concern shown after the crash.
The community continues to mourn as the family prepares for funeral arrangements during an already unimaginable time.
