Kia Optima struck a stopped Toyota north of Highway 180
May 17, 2026 | Fresno, CA
What happened in the crash?
Kendrixx Leavell, 3, died after a Kia Optima collided with a disabled Toyota Camry on southbound Highway 41 north of Highway 180 in Fresno County.
- Date and time: Early Sunday morning, May 17
- Location: Southbound Highway 41, north of Highway 180, Fresno
- Vehicles: Toyota Camry stopped without lights struck by Kia Optima
- Fatalities: 3-year-old Kendrixx Leavell of Hanford; 33-year-old Fresno woman driving Toyota Camry
- Injuries: Adult passenger in Kia Optima suffered major injuries
- Agency: California Highway Patrol investigating; multiple near-miss reports received prior to impact
Why do these accidents happen?
Several factors contribute to traffic fatalities, including speeding, impaired driving, and distracted driving. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported 8,055 lives lost in motor vehicle collisions during the first quarter of 2025.
Key statistics on motor vehicle crashes
| Source | Statistic | Period |
|---|
| National Highway Traffic Safety Administration | 8,055 lives lost in collisions | Q1 2025 |
| Federal Highway Administration | Distracted and impaired driving among top causes | Ongoing |
Legal Insights
In cases such as this, an independent review helps ensure all evidence receives thorough examination.
“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 Candice Bond, managing partner of Bond Legal.
- Time-sensitive evidence collection protects family interests
- Review of witness statements and records strengthens case evaluation
- Families gain clarity on available options after a loss
Pending investigation results, family members may pursue a wrongful death claim for damages including loss of companionship and emotional distress.
“We understand that losing a loved one is not only a deeply emotional loss but also an economic one,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal. “If you have lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, contact a wrongful death attorney and get the guidance needed to obtain the justice you deserve.”
An online fundraiser supports the child’s family.
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If you or a family member has been affected by a similar incident, national legal analyst Candice Bond is available for a free consultation. Use the contact information provided on this page.
(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).
Tags: Latest News, Non Commercial, Motor Vehicle Accident, California, Highway 41, north of Highway 180