Diego Garcia Tepec and Juan Ortega Juarez Killed in Fresno County Collision

FRESNO COUNTY, California — Two Fresno residents, 56-year-old Diego Garcia Tepec and 57-year-old Juan Ortega Juarez, were killed in a violent two-vehicle rear-end collision in rural Fresno County on Monday morning, September 28, 2026.

At approximately 7:50 a.m., emergency personnel from the California Highway Patrol (CHP) and Fresno County emergency medical services were dispatched to the intersection of West Lincoln Avenue and South Cornelia Avenue near Easton. According to initial CHP field reports, Tepec was driving a Nissan Sentra westbound on Lincoln Avenue with Juarez as a passenger. A Honda Civic traveling behind them at a high rate of speed struck the rear of the Nissan. The severe impact caused both vehicles to spin out of control and come to rest off the roadway near an adjacent orchard. Emergency responders provided advanced life support on scene, but both Tepec and Juarez sustained fatal injuries and were pronounced deceased at the scene.

Official Status and Traffic Investigation

The Fresno County Sheriff's Office Coroner's Unit formally identified the deceased victims following family notifications on Monday afternoon.

The California Highway Patrol collision investigation unit has opened a formal inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the crash. Officers confirmed that the driver of the Honda Civic sustained minor to moderate injuries and was transported to a local hospital for medical treatment. Preliminary findings indicate that all occupants were wearing seatbelts at the time of impact. Investigating officers stated that drugs and alcohol do not appear to be contributing factors. CHP officers established a temporary perimeter around the Lincoln and Cornelia Avenue intersection to map the collision scene and perform technical vehicle inspections.

Community Tributes and Family Support

News of the fatal crash has deeply affected the local Fresno and Easton communities, prompting widespread expressions of sympathy for the families of both men.

Neighbors, friends, and family members remember Diego Garcia Tepec and Juan Ortega Juarez as cherished members of their families and community. Condolences and support resources are being extended to both grieving families during this period of tragedy. Memorial details and formal funeral arrangements will be announced as plans are finalized.