Fresno, CA – Pedestrian Killed After Being Hit by Semi-Truck on Hwy 99 Near Clinton Ave

Fresno, CA (November 20, 2025) – A 25-year-old man was killed Tuesday night, November 18, after being struck by a semi-truck while walking on Highway 99 in Fresno, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP).

CHP officers responded to a report around 10:00 p.m. regarding a pedestrian seen walking in the slow lane of northbound Highway 99, just south of Clinton Avenue. When officers arrived, they discovered that the man had been hit by a Volvo semi-truck.

The pedestrian, identified as Manuel Flores of Fresno, sustained critical injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene by first responders.

Authorities have not yet confirmed why Flores was walking on the highway or whether impairment may have been a factor. Toxicology reports are currently pending through the Fresno County Coroner’s Office. The truck driver remained at the scene and cooperated with the investigation.

We extend our condolences to the family and loved ones of Manuel Flores during this difficult time. The investigation is ongoing.

Pedestrian Accidents Involving Commercial Trucks in Fresno

Pedestrian fatalities involving large commercial vehicles like semi-trucks are tragically common on California’s highways. In areas like Fresno, where Highway 99 serves as a major transportation corridor, the risk of serious incidents is especially high.

Highway environments are not designed for pedestrian travel. When individuals enter active freeway lanes—intentionally or otherwise—the chance of survival is low due to vehicle speeds, driver visibility, and the immense force of impact from heavy trucks. In particular, pedestrians struck by semi-trucks often suffer fatal injuries on impact, as these vehicles can weigh up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded.

The causes of pedestrian entries onto highways vary. Some cases involve vehicle breakdowns, mental health crises, or attempts to cross the highway on foot. In others, drug or alcohol use may contribute. Regardless of the cause, these tragic incidents leave families searching for answers and, in some cases, legal remedies.

If it is found that driver negligence—such as speeding, distraction, or failure to take evasive action—played a role in the collision, surviving family members may have grounds to file a wrongful death claim. This legal option allows families to pursue compensation for funeral expenses, loss of income, and emotional suffering caused by the unexpected death of a loved one.

Navigating the legal process after a fatal pedestrian crash involving a commercial truck is complex. It often requires accident reconstruction, eyewitness testimony, toxicology results, and careful review of trucking company policies and driver logs.

If your family has lost a loved one in a fatal collision involving a semi-truck, a knowledgeable wrongful death attorney can help guide you through your options. Contact Countrywide Trial Lawyers at 844-844-9119 to schedule a consultation and get the support you need.