David Perez dies in single-vehicle crash on Highway 99 at Avenue 17

Vehicle struck concrete barrier after driver fled deputies

February 15, 2026 | Madera, CA

A tragic incident unfolded early Sunday when a vehicle, attempting to evade deputies, collided with a concrete barrier on Highway 99 at Avenue 17 in Madera County. 

The crash claimed the lives of four individuals, including three teenagers, while a fifth passenger was airlifted to a hospital in critical condition.

What Happened in the Crash?

David Daza Perez, 15, was among four people who died after a vehicle fleeing deputies crashed into a concrete barrier near Highway 99 and Avenue 17 in Madera County.

Authorities from the Madera County Sheriff’s Office responded to reports of burglaries near El Vado and Avenue 18½ around 1 a.m. Deputies spotted a matching vehicle in the neighborhood and attempted to stop it. The 25-year-old driver accelerated away, leading to a high-speed pursuit that ended approximately three miles later at the intersection of Highway 99 and Avenue 17.

The vehicle lost control and struck a concrete barrier, resulting in fatal injuries to the driver and three young passengers. The Fresno County Coroner’s Office identified one victim as 15-year-old David Daza Perez. The other passengers killed were aged 13 and 15. An 18-year-old passenger survived but required emergency airlift to a medical facility.

The California Highway Patrol is leading the crash investigation. Anyone with details is encouraged to reach Detective M. Fullhart at 559-675-2497 ext. 4120.

• Date and Time: Feb. 15, around 1 a.m.
• Location: Highway 99 and Avenue 17, Madera County, CA
• Vehicle Involved: Single passenger vehicle fleeing law enforcement
• Victims: Four fatalities, driver, 25, and passengers aged 13, 15, and David Daza Perez, 15, one injured, 8-year-old airlifted
• Agencies: Madera County Sheriff’s Office, California Highway Patrol, Fresno County Coroner’s Office

Why Do These Accidents Happen?

Motor vehicle crashes remain a leading cause of death in the United States, often linked to driver behavior such as speeding or evading authorities. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 42,939 people died in motor vehicle crashes in 2021 alone, with speeding contributing to about 29% of all fatal accidents.

These figures underscore the dangers of impaired judgment behind the wheel, particularly during pursuits or in response to law enforcement.

Legal Insights

In cases such as this involving high-speed pursuits and fatal collisions, independent reviews play a crucial role in understanding liability. National legal analyst Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal, emphasizes the need for thorough examinations beyond initial police reports.

“In addition to the diligent work of law enforcement, an attorney can re-interview important witnesses, analyze any surveillance video from the scene of the crash, and obtain phone and texting records of the liable party,” said Bond, a national analyst for Newsline. “Time is of the essence in cases such as this and the family of the victim must ensure that evidence is reviewed in an efficient manner.”

• Key Takeaway: Prompt independent investigations can uncover critical evidence like witness statements or digital records.
• Key Takeaway: Early attorney involvement helps preserve vital information that may fade over time.
• Key Takeaway: Families benefit from professional guidance to navigate complex legal processes following such tragedies.

Pending outcomes from the ongoing investigation, relatives of victims like David Daza Perez could pursue wrongful death claims. These may cover losses including companionship, pain, suffering, and emotional distress.

Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal, notes the dual emotional and financial effects of such losses.

“We understand that losing a loved one is not only a deeply emotional loss but also an economic one,” said Formica. “If you have lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, contact a wrongful death attorney and get the guidance needed in order to obtain the justice you deserve.”

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