A devastating two-vehicle collision at a Madera County intersection on Tuesday night has claimed the life of an 18-year-old woman and left a 19-year-old man in critical condition.
According to the California Highway Patrol, the crash occurred at approximately 9:46 p.m. at the intersection of Avenue 17 and Road 28 1/2, KSEE/KGPE reported.
Investigating officers reported that the 18-year-old was driving a white 2018 Chevrolet Malibu eastbound on Avenue 17 when she failed to stop at a stop sign.
Per the CHP, the Chevrolet entered the path of a black 2019 Jeep Wrangler traveling south on Road 28 1/2, which had the right of way.
The force of the impact caused the Jeep to overturn, and both vehicles struck a parked car and a support beam of a nearby residence before coming to rest.
The 18-year-old driver was pronounced dead at the scene.
Her sister, Angelina Gutierrez, who was a passenger in the vehicle and suffered minor injuries, organized a fundraiser to honor her memory.
Describing her sibling’s legacy and presence in the community, Gutierrez said, “Her gentle spirit and warmth made her a light in our lives and in the community”.
Bobby Criado, a 19-year-old passenger in the Chevrolet, suffered major injuries and was airlifted to a local hospital.
An online fundraiser for Criado described his condition as not survivable due to a catastrophic brain injury.
Organizer Audrey Aanonson provided a heartbreaking update on his medical status, stating, “After exhaustive evaluation and treatment, Bobby’s medical team determined that his injuries are not survivable”.
The 25-year-old driver of the Jeep and her passenger sustained only minor injuries in the collision.
Community members have since raised thousands of dollars through verified GoFundMe pages to assist both families with medical and funeral expenses.