Michelle Lawrence Dead, Saul Galvez Diaz Arrested after DUI Collision on Floral Avenue [Fresno County, CA]

28-Year-Old Woman Pronounced Dead after Head-On Accident near Willow Avenue

FRESNO COUNTY, CA (January 20, 2025) – Saturday evening, a head-on DUI collision on Floral Avenue claimed the life of Michelle Lawrence.

The incident happened around 8:30 p.m., near Willow Avenue on January 4th.

California Highway Patrol officers say 24-year-old Saul Galvez Diaz was driving a Toyota in the eastbound lanes of Floral Avenue.

Meanwhile, a 61-year-old woman with 28-year-old Lawrence as a front-seat passenger and a 9-year-old girl in the back-seat were heading west.

Investigators say Diaz crossed over to the center lane to make a turn onto Willow Avenue. As a result, Diaz collided head-on with the oncoming Nissan.

Paramedics arrived and transported Diaz, Lawrence, and two other occupants from the Nissan to Community Regional Medical Center for further treatment.

Despite life-saving efforts, Lawrence succumbed to her injuries at the hospital.

Following preliminary duties, authorities determined that Diaz was impaired at that time, and he was arrested after he was discharged from the hospital. Authorities took Diaz into the Fresno County Jail on suspicion of DUI.

Further investigation is still ongoing, and witnesses are urged to call the California Highway Patrol at 559-262-0400.

Our deepest condolences and sympathies are with the family and friends of Michelle Lawrence.

The sudden loss of a loved one after a car accident is an extremely difficult time for the surviving family. At Sweet James, we understand that legal decisions have to be made. We are here to provide you with unmatched legal representation during this trying time. Call us at 1-844-363-7713 for a free and confidential case evaluation.