2 Killed, 1 Injured in Pedestrian Collision near 3rd Street

HANFORD, CA (October 31, 2023) – Friday evening, Maria Suarez and Jaylee Castro were killed in a pedestrian accident on Phillips Street.

First responders arrived to the scene around 7:00 p.m., near 3rd Street.

For reasons under investigation, the driver of an eastbound vehicle struck multiple pedestrians who were crossing from south to north.

Paramedics took the three injured victims to a nearby hospital where two of them later died. Authorities identified the deceased victims as 62-year-old Maria Suarez and her 3-year-old granddaughter Jaylee Castro.

Paramedics also transported a 9-year-old male to Valley Children’s Hospital where he remains in stable condition. The involved driver remained at the scene and cooperated with the investigators. 

Following preliminary duties, police do not suspect drugs and alcohol to be a factor in the collision. However, authorities claimed that a lack of lighting in the area might have been a factor.

Our warm and sincerest sympathies go out to the friends and families of Maria Suarez and Jaylee Castro. May you find comfort and strength during this difficult time.

It is important to have strong legal representation on your side when losing a loved one in a pedestrian crash. Reach out to the wrongful death attorneys at Sweet James today. With 20 years of experience in the field, we know what it takes to help you win your case. Our team understands that nothing can alleviate the emotional pain of the death of a loved one, but we can help you seek justice and compensation. Call us at 1-844-363-7713 for a free and confidential case evaluation. You can reach us 24 hours a day and 7 days a week through email, text, and online chat.