Fresno, CA - Fatal Vehicle Crash on Hwy 180 at Canal Under Inquiry

Fresno, CA (May 23, 2025) – At least one person has died after a car crashed into a canal in Fresno County on Friday night.

The crash happened just after 8:30 p.m. on Highway 180 between Frankwood and Alta, just east of Minkler, but it's unclear if any other vehicles were involved in the incident. First responders arrived at the scene, finding a car overturned in a canal.

For the next several hours, authorities worked to determine if anyone was inside, confirming at least one body was found. No additional information has been released about the condition of the drivers or passengers.

Our deepest condolences are with the deceased victim's family members. We also hope those injured in this accident recover quickly.

Car Accidents in California

California’s major corridors regularly log high-impact crashes. In 2023 alone, thousands of wrecks unfolded on state routes, and Sacramento County’s swelling commuter base contributed a sizable portion. After dark, reduced sightlines, bumper-to-bumper traffic, and end-of-day driver fatigue raise the odds of a serious collision.

If you find yourself in a highway wreck, several variables can shape both your recovery and any insurance claim:

• Gridlock and first-responder access. Pile-ups can snarl traffic for miles, slowing ambulances and tow trucks. Seek medical evaluation as soon as help arrives—hidden injuries may not surface right away.

• High-speed vehicle damage. Frame bending, blown airbags, and engine injuries are common at freeway velocities. Carriers will decide whether repairs make financial sense or the vehicle is a total loss.

• Locating witnesses. Drivers rarely stop on busy lanes. If safe, note plate numbers or ask nearby motorists for contact details, and later request footage from traffic or dash cameras.

• Official documentation. The California Highway Patrol typically files a crash report on limited-access roads; secure a copy quickly to anchor your claim.

• Overlapping policies. Multi-car events invite investigations by several insurers, each eager to shift blame. Fault may be divided, so keep detailed records from the outset.

If you or a loved one was hurt in a highway crash, it’s essential to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible. Contact our car accident attorneys to ensure you understand your rights and get the support you need. An attorney can help you deal with insurers, gather crucial evidence, and recover compensation for medical bills, vehicle repairs, and lost income.

At Countrywide Trial Lawyers, we bring unmatched insight to every case. Our founder, Shawn S. Rokni, previously defended insurance companies—experience we now use to hold them accountable for our clients. With over $100 million recovered and more than 5,000 wins, our record speaks for itself. We’ve studied case valuation at Harvard Law and know what your claim is truly worth. Call us today at 844-844-9119 for a free consultation. We're ready to stand by your side and fight for your recovery.