Vehicle struck pedestrian who ran into roadway south of Belmont Avenue
January 27, 2026 | Fresno, CA
Authorities report that 37-year-old Andrew Magana of Fresno lost his life early Thursday after a suspected impaired driver struck him on Highway 99 south of Belmont Avenue. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) is investigating the incident, which occurred around 12:45 a.m.
Andrew Magana, 37, of Fresno, died at the scene after being struck as a pedestrian on Highway 99 south of Belmont Avenue.
Magana had pulled over on the transition ramp from Highway 99 to Highway 180 for reasons that remain unclear. He left his vehicle with the engine running and the driver's door open before entering the roadway, where the collision happened.
The driver involved faces suspicion of driving under the influence, and the case remains under active investigation by CHP officials.
What Happened in the Crash?
Key details from the ongoing investigation include:
- Victim: Andrew Magana, 37, Fresno resident
- Date and Time: Jan. 27, approximately 12:45 a.m.
- Location: Highway 99 south of Belmont Avenue, Fresno County
- Vehicles Involved: Pedestrian struck by a motor vehicle, and the victim's car was left on nearby ramp
- Outcome: Magana was pronounced dead at the scene
- Suspect: Driver suspected of DUI, and no further details released
Why Do Pedestrian Accidents Like This Occur?
Pedestrian fatalities on U.S. roadways continue to rise, often linked to impaired driving, speeding, and poor visibility at night. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), alcohol impairment plays a role in a significant portion of these tragedies.
Year |
Pedestrian Deaths |
Primary Causes (NHTSA Data) |
|---|
2021 |
7,388 |
DUI (29%), Speeding (21%), Distracted Driving (14%) |
2022 |
7,522 |
Nighttime Crashes (75%), Urban Areas (76%) |
2023 |
7,314 |
Impaired Driving (25%), Failure to Yield (18%) |
Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Data reflects estimates for public roads.
These statistics underscore the preventable nature of many such incidents, highlighting the need for stricter enforcement and public awareness.
Legal Insights on DUI-Related Crashes
In cases involving suspected impaired drivers, families often seek justice through civil actions. National legal analyst shared her perspective on handling these situations.
“Separate from criminal charges, a victim’s family may be entitled to compensation through a civil lawsuit against the responsible party,” said Candice Bond, managing partner of Bond Legal and national analyst for Newsline. “Serving as an advocate, an attorney can help compassionately guide a grieving family during this difficult time, protecting their legal rights, while ensuring that a drunk driver is held accountable for their reckless actions.”
Key takeaways from such analyses include:
- Preservation of Evidence: Time-sensitive collection of data, like witness statements and vehicle records, is essential to build a strong case.
- Civil Remedies: Families may pursue claims for medical costs, funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and emotional distress.
- Accountability Measures: Holding impaired drivers responsible can prevent future incidents and provide closure.
Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal, added context on wrongful death scenarios.
“An incident is considered a wrongful death when either a person or entity commits a wrongful or negligent act resulting in a person's death,” said Formica. “When vehicle accident fatalities result from unsafe driving, aggressive or distracted driving, speeding, a hit-and-run, or driving under the influence, family members are usually left with the option to pursue a civil action against the responsible motorist.”
Pending investigation outcomes, Magana's family could explore options for compensation related to the crash.
Newsline, a premier digital news platform owned by Belsito Communications, Inc., upholds rigorous editorial standards with an unwavering commitment to journalistic integrity and editorial excellence. For transparency, our Corrections Policy ensures a 24-hour review guarantee on submitted feedback.
Learn more about our Editorial Process and Editorial Policy.
(This report is based on verified data - learn more on our About Us page.)
Newsline - is your trusted source for legal news and accident reports, delivering timely updates to keep you informed.
If you’ve been injured or lost a loved one due to a drunk driver, national legal analyst Candice Bond offers free consultations to guide you.
(Candice Bond, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Bond Legal. Newsline can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-985-6515 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).