Road 28 1/2 at Avenue 15: a westbound driver was struck at the intersection and killed, and the CHP arrested a 32-year-old man on suspicion of DUI
MADERA, CALIFORNIA (October 4, 2026): A man was killed and his passenger was hospitalized in a suspected Madera County DUI crash on Sunday evening, October 4, at the intersection of Road 28 1/2 and Avenue 15 in Madera County, according to the California Highway Patrol, as reported by KSEE. A 32-year-old man was arrested and is accused of causing the crash. He is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
The two-car crash was reported at 6:03 p.m. When officers arrived, the man was receiving lifesaving aid, but he was pronounced dead at the scene, the CHP said. A passenger in his car was taken to a hospital in unknown condition.
According to the CHP’s preliminary information, the man was driving west on Avenue 15 when his car was struck at the intersection with Road 28 1/2. The names of the man who died and of the arrested driver have not been released. The CHP continues to investigate and asks anyone who saw the crash or has information to contact the CHP.
Liability for the Madera County DUI Crash
California Vehicle Code § 23153 makes it a crime to drive under the influence and cause injury to another person, and a driver whose impairment causes a crash is generally liable for the harm under Civil Code § 1714. Civil Code § 3294 can also allow punitive damages when a driver acted with conscious disregard for the safety of others. Based on what the CHP has released, the questions include:
- Impairment: The CHP arrested the other driver on suspicion of DUI. Blood or breath test results will be central evidence in both the criminal case and any civil claim.
- Right of way at the intersection: The man was westbound on Avenue 15 when he was struck. Traffic controls at the intersection and the other driver’s direction and speed will be part of the reconstruction.
- The passenger’s claim: The hospitalized passenger may have a separate personal injury claim against the responsible driver.
- Insurance coverage: The arrested driver’s auto policy is usually the first source of recovery, and underinsured motorist coverage may apply if that policy is not enough.
The man’s family may bring a wrongful death claim under Code of Civil Procedure § 377.60. The civil claim is separate from the criminal case and can move forward on its own timeline, regardless of the outcome of the prosecution.
Steps to Take After a Madera County DUI Crash
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, alcohol-impaired driving accounts for roughly a third of U.S. traffic deaths. In crashes on rural intersections, physical evidence and witness information can be lost quickly.
- Request the CHP report: Ask the CHP for the Traffic Collision Report and the case number.
- Follow the criminal case: Families of victims have rights under California’s Marsy’s Law, including notice of court dates. The Madera County District Attorney’s victim services unit can help.
- Preserve the vehicles: Ask that both vehicles be kept until they can be inspected and their crash data downloaded.
- Victim assistance: The California Victim Compensation Board (CalVCB) may help with funeral and medical expenses caused by a crime such as DUI.
Wrongful death and injury claims generally must be filed within two years under Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1. If intersection signage maintained by Madera County is examined, a government claim is generally due within six months under Government Code § 911.2. Contact an attorney promptly to protect your rights.
Investigating the Madera County DUI Crash
We at Carrazco Law, A.P.C. extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of the man who lost his life on Avenue 15, and we hope for the recovery of his passenger. Important questions remain: What will blood test results show about the arrested driver’s condition? And how did the two cars meet at Road 28 1/2?
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car, truck or pedestrian accident anywhere in California, our personal injury attorneys can help you understand your rights and legal options. Call us anytime at (800) 541-3244. Se Habla Español. Free consultation.
Published on October 5, 2026 by M.M., Carrazco Law, A.P.C. The incident described in this article occurred on October 4, 2026.
