A tragic pedestrian accident in north Fresno has claimed the life of a 48-year-old resident, highlighting the ongoing concerns about pedestrian safety at busy intersections throughout the Central Valley. The fatal collision occurred Sunday evening, November 24, 2025, at the intersection of Bullard Avenue and First Street, leaving a family grieving and a community searching for answers about how such tragedies can be prevented.
Details of the North Fresno Pedestrian Accident
According to the Fresno County Coroner’s Office and Fresno Police Department, officers responded to the intersection of Bullard Avenue and First Street on Sunday evening after receiving reports of a pedestrian struck by a vehicle. Upon arrival, first responders found the 48-year-old Fresno man lying in the roadway with severe injuries.
Emergency medical personnel immediately administered first aid at the scene before transporting the victim to a local hospital for further treatment. Despite the efforts of medical staff, the pedestrian succumbed to his injuries at the hospital. The Fresno County Coroner’s Office has not yet publicly released the victim’s identity, as authorities work to notify all family members.
How the Bullard Avenue and First Street Collision Occurred
Investigators from the Fresno Police Department have begun piecing together the circumstances that led to this fatal pedestrian accident. According to preliminary reports, the victim was crossing the intersection in a westbound direction on Bullard Avenue when he was struck by a vehicle.
The driver involved in the collision remained at the scene and cooperated with investigating officers. Notably, police have reported that the driver is not suspected of being under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of the accident. This detail suggests that other factors—such as visibility, pedestrian crossing signals, driver distraction, or the pedestrian’s positioning in the roadway—may have contributed to the tragedy.
The Fresno Police continue to investigate all aspects of the collision and are working to determine whether any traffic violations occurred or if environmental factors contributed to the accident.
Pedestrian Safety Concerns at Fresno Intersections
This fatal accident underscores the vulnerability of pedestrians navigating Fresno’s busy streets and intersections. Bullard Avenue is a major east-west thoroughfare in north Fresno, carrying significant vehicle traffic throughout the day and evening hours. The intersection with First Street serves residential and commercial areas, creating a mixture of local and through traffic that can pose challenges for pedestrians.
Pedestrian accidents at intersections often result from a combination of factors, including driver inattention, failure to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, inadequate lighting, poor visibility, and pedestrians crossing outside designated crosswalks or against traffic signals. In California, drivers are required by law to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in marked or unmarked crosswalks, and failure to do so can result in both criminal charges and civil liability.
Even when pedestrians are crossing legally and carefully, the size and weight disparity between a human body and a motor vehicle means that any collision is likely to result in catastrophic or fatal injuries. Head trauma, internal injuries, broken bones, and spinal cord damage are common outcomes in pedestrian accidents, even at relatively low speeds.
Fresno Police Seek Witnesses to Sunday Evening Crash
The Fresno Police Department is actively seeking witnesses who may have observed the collision or the moments leading up to it. Witness testimony can be crucial in reconstructing the accident and determining precisely what happened in the seconds leading up to impact.
Anyone who was in the area of Bullard Avenue and First Street on Sunday evening, November 24, 2025, and may have witnessed the pedestrian accident is urged to contact the Fresno Police Department at 559-621-7000. Even seemingly minor details—such as the pedestrian’s location in the roadway, the vehicle’s speed, the status of the traffic signal, or lighting conditions—can provide investigators with valuable information.
If you witnessed this collision and are hesitant to come forward, remember that your information could help bring clarity to a grieving family and potentially prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Legal Rights of Pedestrian Accident Victims and Their Families
When a pedestrian is killed in a traffic accident in California, the victim’s family members may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim against the at-fault party. While no amount of compensation can truly address the loss of a loved one, a wrongful death claim can provide financial support for funeral expenses, medical bills incurred before death, loss of the victim’s future income and support, and the emotional pain and suffering experienced by surviving family members.
In pedestrian accident cases, establishing liability requires a thorough investigation of the circumstances surrounding the collision. Even when a driver remains at the scene and is not suspected of being under the influence, they may still be held legally responsible if they fail to exercise reasonable care, violate traffic laws, or fail to yield the right of way to a pedestrian.
California follows a “pure comparative negligence” standard, which means that even if the pedestrian shares some responsibility for the accident—such as crossing outside a crosswalk or against a signal—the family may still recover damages, reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to the victim.
How GJEL Accident Attorneys Can Help Fresno Pedestrian Accident Families
At GJEL Accident Attorneys, we understand the profound grief and financial stress that follows the sudden loss of a family member in a pedestrian accident. Our experienced legal team has been helping California families navigate the complex aftermath of traffic fatalities for decades, securing the compensation they need and deserve during an impossibly difficult time.
We have successfully represented numerous pedestrian accident victims and their families throughout the Central Valley and across California, recovering millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts. Our approach combines compassionate client service with aggressive legal advocacy, ensuring that insurance companies and at-fault parties are held fully accountable.
When you work with GJEL Accident Attorneys, you can expect a thorough investigation of your case, including accident reconstruction, review of police reports and witness statements, consultation with medical experts, and analysis of all available evidence. We handle all aspects of your claim, allowing you to focus on grieving and healing. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for your family.
Understanding California’s Wrongful Death Claims Process
California law allows certain family members to file a wrongful death lawsuit when a loved one is killed due to someone else’s negligence or wrongful act. Eligible parties typically include the deceased person’s surviving spouse, domestic partner, children, and, in some cases, other dependent family members or the deceased person’s estate.
A wrongful death claim is separate from any criminal charges that may be filed against the at-fault driver. While criminal cases focus on punishment for violations of the law, civil wrongful death claims focus on compensating the family for their losses. A driver can face no criminal charges yet still be found liable in a civil case, as the standards of proof differ between the two types of proceedings.
California law imposes time limits on filing wrongful death claims. Generally, families have two years from the date of death to file a lawsuit, though certain circumstances may extend or shorten this deadline. It’s critical to consult with an experienced pedestrian accident attorney as soon as possible after a fatal collision to protect your legal rights and ensure that crucial evidence is preserved.
The Emotional and Financial Impact of Losing a Loved One
The sudden loss of a family member in a pedestrian accident creates ripples of pain and disruption that extend far beyond the immediate tragedy. Families must grapple with profound grief while simultaneously managing funeral arrangements, notifying extended family and friends, and handling the deceased person’s affairs.
The financial impact can be equally devastating. Funeral and burial costs can easily exceed $10,000, and if the victim was employed, the family loses the financial support and contributions that person provided. For families who depended on the victim’s income, health insurance, or household contributions, the economic consequences can be severe and long-lasting.
A wrongful death claim cannot restore what was lost, but it can provide the financial resources necessary to maintain stability during a time of upheaval. Compensation may cover immediate expenses, such as funeral costs and outstanding medical bills, as well as long-term losses, including the value of the support, guidance, and companionship the deceased would have provided over their expected lifetime.
Preventing Future Pedestrian Accidents in Fresno
While this particular tragedy cannot be undone, the broader community can take steps to improve pedestrian safety and prevent similar accidents in the future. Drivers should remain vigilant at all intersections, particularly during evening hours when visibility decreases. Looking carefully for pedestrians before making turns, yielding to anyone in a crosswalk, eliminating distractions like cell phones, and adjusting speed for conditions are all critical driver responsibilities.
Pedestrians can enhance their own safety by using marked crosswalks whenever possible, obeying traffic signals, making eye contact with drivers before crossing, wearing reflective or light-colored clothing at night, and avoiding distractions while crossing streets. However, even the most careful pedestrian cannot eliminate the risk posed by negligent or inattentive drivers.
City planners and traffic engineers also play a crucial role in promoting pedestrian safety. Enhancing lighting at intersections, clearly marking crosswalks, implementing pedestrian countdown signals, implementing traffic calming measures in high-pedestrian areas, and conducting public education campaigns can all contribute to reducing the frequency and severity of pedestrian accidents.
Using a Pedestrian Accident Settlement Calculator to Understand Your Claim’s Value
When families are dealing with the aftermath of a fatal pedestrian accident, one of the most pressing questions is often about the potential value of a wrongful death claim. A pedestrian accident settlement calculator can provide valuable initial insight into what your case might be worth, though it’s important to understand both its benefits and limitations.
These calculators typically consider factors such as the victim’s age, income, and life expectancy, along with medical expenses incurred before death, funeral and burial costs, and the pain and suffering endured by both the victim and surviving family members. By inputting information specific to your situation, a settlement calculator can generate an estimated range of compensation that helps families understand what they might reasonably expect to recover.
However, every pedestrian accident case is unique, and numerous variables—including the strength of evidence, the degree of negligence involved, insurance policy limits, the jurisdiction where the claim is filed, and the skill of your legal representation—can significantly impact the final settlement or verdict amount.
While a settlement calculator serves as a helpful starting point for understanding potential compensation, it cannot replace the detailed case evaluation provided by an experienced pedestrian accident attorney who can assess the specific circumstances of your loved one’s death and provide a more accurate assessment of your claim’s true value.
At GJEL Accident Attorneys, we offer free consultations where we can review the details of your case and provide a realistic evaluation of what your family may be entitled to recover, giving you the information you need to make informed decisions about pursuing justice for your loved one. Call us now at +1-866-218-3776 to speak with our experts.
Our Commitment: No Fees Unless We Win Your Case
“The loss of life in a pedestrian accident is absolutely devastating, and my heart goes out to this family during what I know is an unimaginably difficult time. When someone is taken from us so suddenly on our city streets, the grief can feel overwhelming, and families often don’t know where to turn or what steps to take next. It’s important to understand that even when a driver remains at the scene and cooperates with police, that doesn’t necessarily mean your family has no legal recourse. California law protects pedestrians, and drivers have a duty to exercise reasonable care and yield the right of way at intersections. A thorough investigation may reveal factors that weren’t immediately apparent—such as distracted driving, failure to yield, or inadequate attention to the roadway. I’ve spent decades helping families navigate the complex legal landscape after losing a loved one in a traffic accident, and I can tell you that pursuing a wrongful death claim isn’t just about compensation—it’s about accountability, answers, and ensuring your family has the financial resources to move forward. If you’ve lost someone in a pedestrian accident, please don’t hesitate to reach out for a free consultation. We work on a no-win, no-fee basis, which means you’ll never pay attorney fees unless we successfully recover compensation for your family. Let us handle the legal complexities so you can focus on what matters most—honoring your loved one’s memory and supporting each other through this tragedy.” — Andy Gillin, Managing Partner, GJEL Accident Attorneys
If your family has lost a loved one in a pedestrian accident in Fresno or anywhere in California, GJEL Accident Attorneys is here to help. Our compassionate legal team will listen to your story, explain your legal options, and fight tirelessly to secure the justice and compensation your family deserves.
We offer free, no-obligation consultations to families dealing with wrongful death claims, and we never charge attorney fees unless we successfully recover compensation on your behalf. This “no win, no fee” approach ensures that financial concerns never prevent families from accessing experienced legal representation when they need it most.
The investigation into this fatal pedestrian accident at Bullard Avenue and First Street is ongoing, and the full circumstances may not be known for some time. What is certain is that a Fresno family is mourning the loss of a 48-year-old man who should still be with them today. If negligence played any role in this tragedy, those responsible must be held accountable.
At GJEL, we ensure that all evidence is properly preserved and that all potential sources of compensation are thoroughly investigated, allowing families to focus on healing. Talk to an experienced GJEL accident attorney for a free legal consultation. Contact us at +1-866-218-3776 or visit our Orinda office to secure your future and compensation.
Local Fresno Resources for Pedestrian Accident Victims and Their Families
If you or a loved one has been affected by a pedestrian accident in Fresno, numerous local agencies and organizations can provide assistance, information, and support during this difficult time. Below is a comprehensive list of resources available to accident victims and their families in the Fresno area.
Fresno Police Department
The Fresno Police Department is the primary law enforcement agency investigating this fatal pedestrian accident and can provide accident reports and investigation updates.
Fresno Police Department Headquarters 2323 Mariposa Street Fresno, CA 93721 Phone: (559) 621-7000 Non-Emergency Line: (559) 621-7000 Traffic Division: (559) 621-2424 Website: https://www.fresno.gov/police/
To obtain a copy of the traffic collision report for insurance or legal purposes, you can contact the Fresno Police Department’s Records Division or visit their headquarters during business hours. Accident reports are typically available 10 to 14 days after the incident.
Fresno County Coroner’s Office
The Fresno County Coroner’s Office handles death investigations and can provide information about deceased loved ones to immediate family members.
Fresno County Coroner’s Office 2544 Mariposa Street Fresno, CA 93721 Phone: (559) 600-3440 Fax: (559) 600-1400 Website: https://www.co.fresno.ca.us/departments/sheriff-coroner-public-administrator-s-office/coroner
Fresno County Emergency Medical Services
For information about emergency medical response and ambulance services in Fresno County.
Fresno County Department of Public Health – EMS Division 1221 Fulton Street Fresno, CA 93721 Phone: (559) 600-3332 Website: https://www.co.fresno.ca.us/departments/public-health/emergency-medical-services
Local Hospitals and Medical Centers
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, these Fresno-area hospitals provide emergency and trauma care:
Community Regional Medical Center (Level I Trauma Center) 2823 Fresno Street Fresno, CA 93721 Emergency Department: (559) 459-6000 Main Line: (559) 459-6000 Website: https://www.communitymedical.org/
Saint Agnes Medical Center 1303 E. Herndon Avenue Fresno, CA 93720 Emergency Department: (559) 450-3000 Main Line: (559) 450-3000 Website: https://www.samc.com/
Veterans Affairs Central California Health Care System 2615 E. Clinton Avenue Fresno, CA 93703 Phone: (559) 225-6100 Website: https://www.va.gov/central-california-health-care/
California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
For information about driver records, traffic safety programs, and filing reports.
Fresno DMV Office 1377 Fulton Street Fresno, CA 93721 Phone: 1-800-777-0133 Website: https://www.dmv.ca.gov/
Fresno Council of Governments (Fresno COG)
The Fresno Council of Governments serves as the region’s metropolitan planning organization, addressing transportation safety issues.
Fresno Council of Governments 2035 Tulare Street, Suite 201 Fresno, CA 93721 Phone: (559) 233-4148 Fax: (559) 233-9645 Email: mail@fresnocog.org Website: https://www.fresnocog.org/
California Highway Patrol (CHP) – Fresno Area Office
While city streets fall under the jurisdiction of the Fresno PD, the CHP handles accidents on state highways and can provide additional traffic safety resources.
CHP Fresno Area Office 5241 E. McKinley Avenue Fresno, CA 93727 Phone: (559) 262-0400 Website: https://www.chp.ca.gov/find-an-office/central-division/fresno
Victim Services and Support Organizations
Marjaree Mason Center (Victim Services) 1600 M Street Fresno, CA 93721 24-Hour Crisis Line: (559) 233-4357 Administrative Line: (559) 233-4479 Website: https://www.mmcenter.org/
Fresno County Victim Services Program 2220 Tulare Street, Suite 1000 Fresno, CA 93721 Phone: (559) 600-1832 Website: https://www.co.fresno.ca.us/departments/district-attorney/victim-services
California Victim Compensation Board
The California Victim Compensation Board provides financial assistance to victims of violent crime, including hit-and-run pedestrian accidents.
California Victim Compensation Board Phone: 1-800-777-9229 Website: https://victims.ca.gov/
Eligible expenses may include medical and mental health treatment, funeral and burial costs, income loss, and relocation expenses.
Legal Aid and Advocacy Resources
Central California Legal Services 2115 Kern Street, Suite 1 Fresno, CA 93721 Phone: (559) 570-1200 Toll-Free: 1-800-675-8001 Website: https://www.centralcallegal.org/
State Bar of California – Lawyer Referral Service Phone: 1-866-442-2529 Website: https://www.calbar.ca.gov/Public/Need-Legal-Help/Lawyer-Referral-Service
Grief Counseling and Mental Health Support
Fresno County Department of Behavioral Health Access Line: (559) 600-9355 or 1-888-506-0094 (24/7) Website: https://www.co.fresno.ca.us/departments/behavioral-health
Community Behavioral Health Center 7171 N. Cedar Avenue Fresno, CA 93720 Phone: (559) 449-8000 Website: https://communityhealthcenterfresno.org/
Hinds Hospice Grief Support Services 1616 W. Shaw Avenue, Suite 100 Fresno, CA 93711 Phone: (559) 449-4325 Website: https://www.hindshospice.org/
Traffic Safety Education and Advocacy
California Office of Traffic Safety Website: https://www.ots.ca.gov/ Resources on pedestrian safety, traffic laws, and accident prevention programs.
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Phone: 1-888-327-4236 Website: https://www.nhtsa.gov/ Federal resources on traffic safety, vehicle recalls, and crash statistics.
Social Security Administration
If the deceased was receiving Social Security benefits, or if dependents need to apply for survivor benefits.
Social Security Administration – Fresno Office 1052 C Street Fresno, CA 93706 Phone: 1-800-772-1213 Website: https://www.ssa.gov/
Additional Support Resources
211 Fresno-Madera Counties Dial 211 or Phone: (559) 490-9093 Website: https://www.fresnomaderacoc.org/211 A comprehensive information and referral service connecting residents to community resources, including emergency assistance, housing, food, healthcare, and counseling services.
Fresno County Office of the Public Administrator, if the deceased had no known relatives or estate planning documents. 2544 Mariposa Street, Fresno, CA 93721 Phone: (559) 600-3600 Website: https://www.co.fresno.ca.us/departments/sheriff-coroner-public-administrator-s-office/public-administrator
These resources can provide crucial assistance as you navigate the aftermath of a pedestrian accident. Whether you need immediate support, information about the investigation, help with funeral arrangements, counseling services, or guidance on your legal rights, these agencies and organizations are available to help Fresno residents during their time of need.
