Pedestrian Fatally Struck in North Fresno Collision

Pedestrian Killed in North Fresno Collision Near Bullard Avenue and First Street

On Sunday evening, November 23, 2025, a tragic pedestrian collision in north Fresno claimed the life of a man after he was struck by a vehicle near the intersection of Bullard Avenue and First Street. Authorities report the incident occurred around 6:00 p.m. Responding officers rendered first aid at the scene before the victim was transported to a nearby hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. The driver remained on scene and is reportedly cooperating with investigators. Initial indications suggest that alcohol or drugs were not involved. The identity of the pedestrian has not yet been released as the investigation continues.

Law enforcement is asking anyone who witnessed the crash or who may have relevant dashcam footage or other information to contact the Fresno Police Department to assist with the investigation.

Understanding Evening Pedestrian Crashes

While the precise cause of this collision remains under investigation, evening hours often present heightened risks for pedestrians. As daylight fades, visibility diminishes for both drivers and people walking, and glare from headlights, wet pavement, or poorly lit intersections can make it harder to perceive distance and speed. In late November, 6:00 p.m. typically falls after sunset, which can create low-light conditions. Investigators commonly examine the following factors in cases like this:

- Lighting and visibility: Adequacy of street lighting, presence of shadows, and any visual obstructions along the roadway or near the intersection.
- Speed and stopping distance: Whether the vehicle’s speed was safe for conditions and whether a driver could reasonably stop or avoid a collision.
- Right-of-way issues: Whether a crosswalk was present and, if so, whether it was marked or unmarked, and whether traffic signals or pedestrian signals were functioning properly.
- Roadway design and maintenance: Intersection layout, signage, sight lines, lane markings, and whether any dangerous conditions of public property may have contributed.
- Distraction: Potential driver distraction from mobile devices, in-vehicle systems, or other sources, as well as pedestrian distraction.
- Vehicle factors: Headlight functionality, windshield clarity, and vehicle condition.
- Environmental conditions: Weather, road surface, and traffic density at the time of the incident.

Every crash is unique, and causation typically involves multiple contributing factors. A thorough investigation often includes analysis of physical evidence, scene measurements, traffic signal timing, vehicle data, and statements from witnesses.

Legal Rights After a Fatal Pedestrian Collision in California

Families grieving the loss of a loved one may be entitled to pursue a wrongful death claim under California law. A wrongful death claim seeks to hold at-fault parties responsible and recover compensation for the harms the family has suffered. Potential damages can include:

- Funeral and burial expenses
- Loss of financial support the decedent would have provided
- Loss of household services
- Loss of companionship, comfort, care, and guidance
- Medical expenses incurred between the injury and passing (often through a related “survival” action)

California follows a pure comparative negligence rule. This means that if more than one party shares fault for a crash, each party’s responsibility is apportioned by percentage. Even if a pedestrian is found partially at fault, the family may still recover a proportional share of damages from other responsible parties. Importantly, determining fault is fact-specific and should not be assumed before a full investigation.

This tragic loss in north Fresno underscores the vulnerability of pedestrians during evening hours when visibility is reduced and reaction times become more limited. As investigators continue gathering evidence and speaking with witnesses, the victim’s family is left facing immense grief and unanswered questions about what factors contributed to the collision. Even in cases where a driver remains at the scene and impairment is not suspected, a thorough and independent review is essential to determine whether issues such as speed, lighting, roadway design, or driver attention played a role.

For families navigating the aftermath of a fatal pedestrian crash, the legal process can feel overwhelming. California’s wrongful death and survival action laws allow surviving loved ones to seek accountability, pursue financial support, and uncover critical answers that may not emerge through the criminal investigation alone. These claims can help provide stability at a time of profound loss and ensure that all responsible parties are identified under the state’s comparative negligence system.

At Avian Law Group, we understand the pain, confusion, and urgency families experience after a sudden tragedy. Our team is committed to guiding you with compassion and clarity, conducting in-depth investigations, and advocating tirelessly on your behalf.

If your loved one has been involved in a serious or fatal pedestrian collision, you do not have to navigate this difficult journey alone. We are here to protect your rights, pursue justice, and help your family move forward.