Fresno County, CA – A 21-year-old man from Clovis has been arrested following a deadly head-on crash in Fresno County that killed an elderly husband and wife Friday morning. Authorities say the collision occurred after the suspect crossed into oncoming traffic while driving with a suspended license.
Incident Overview
The fatal crash happened around 11:30 a.m. Friday on Auberry Road, just west of Summit Mountain Road, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP). Investigators identified the suspect as Lazaro Hernandez, 21, of Clovis, who was taken into custody and booked into the Fresno County Jail.
Hernandez is facing two felony counts of vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence, authorities said.
What Investigators Say Happened
CHP officers said Hernandez was driving a Dodge Durango eastbound on Auberry Road when he crossed into the westbound lane for reasons still under investigation. The Durango narrowly missed colliding with one westbound vehicle before slamming head-on into a Kia Soul.
The impact proved fatal for the occupants of the Kia.
The driver was identified as Ted Amber, 87, of Clovis, and the passenger as his wife, Sharon Amber, 86. Both were pronounced dead as a result of injuries sustained in the collision, CHP officials confirmed.
Victims Identified
Ted and Sharon Amber were described by investigators as an elderly married couple traveling together at the time of the crash. Authorities have not released further personal details, but the couple’s deaths have deeply impacted the Clovis community.
The crash remains under active investigation as officials work to reconstruct the events leading up to the fatal collision.
Arrest and Charges Filed
Following the crash, the Fresno County District Attorney’s Office responded to the scene to assist CHP investigators. Based on the findings, Hernandez was arrested and later booked on two counts of vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence.
Officials also confirmed that Hernandez was driving with a suspended driver’s license, a factor that will be considered as the case moves through the court system.
Under California law, vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence can carry significant prison time if convicted, particularly in cases involving multiple fatalities.
Drug and Impairment Investigation
During the investigation, officers detected marijuana and the odor of marijuana inside Hernandez’s vehicle. As a result, a Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) evaluation was conducted to determine whether impairment played a role in the crash.
Investigators said the DRE assessment ruled out impairment, and Hernandez was not arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.
While drugs were present in the vehicle, authorities emphasized that impairment was not a contributing factor based on the evaluation.
Role of the District Attorney’s Office
The Fresno County District Attorney’s Office was called to the scene due to the seriousness of the crash and the resulting fatalities. Prosecutors worked alongside CHP investigators to review evidence, interview witnesses, and determine appropriate charges.
The involvement of the DA’s office ultimately led to Hernandez’s arrest later that day.
Road Safety and Head-On Collision Risks
Head-on crashes are among the deadliest types of traffic collisions, often resulting in severe or fatal injuries due to the combined force of two vehicles traveling in opposite directions. CHP officials routinely warn that lane departures — whether caused by distraction, fatigue, speed, or inattention — can have catastrophic consequences.
Authorities also stress the dangers of driving without a valid license, noting that unlicensed or suspended drivers may lack proper training, accountability, or compliance with traffic laws.
Ongoing Investigation
As of Saturday, investigators had not announced whether additional charges could be filed. The case remains under review as CHP continues analyzing evidence from the scene, including vehicle data, roadway conditions, and witness statements.
Anyone who witnessed the crash or has relevant information may be asked to contact CHP as the investigation progresses.
Conclusion
The deaths of Ted and Sharon Amber mark another tragic reminder of how quickly a routine drive can turn fatal. As Lazaro Hernandez faces serious criminal charges, the Fresno County community is left mourning the loss of two lives and awaiting answers as the case moves forward in the justice system.
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