Santiago Lopez Lucas, 56, of Fresno, was booked into the Fresno County Jail on Friday, Nov. 22, 2024, for felony DUI, DUI causing death, and vehicular manslaughter charges, according to the Fresno County Sheriff's Office. (Fresno County SO)
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Pedro Garcia Velarde, 44, of Kerman, was killed, and two juveniles were injured in a head-on crash on Highway 180 west of Grantland Avenue on Friday evening, according to the California Highway Patrol.
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Velarde was identified as the deceased by the Fresno County Sheriff Coroner on Tuesday.
The collision occurred around 6:15 p.m. when a Chevrolet Silverado driven by Santiago Lopez Lucas, 56, of Fresno, traveling westbound veered into the eastbound lane, colliding with a Kia Optima. The driver of the Kia, Velarde, died at the scene from critical injuries, authorities said.
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Two passengers in the Kia, both 14 years old, were transported to Community Regional Medical Center with minor to moderate injuries.
Lucas, who sustained minor injuries, was arrested at the scene on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol.
After receiving medical clearance, he was booked into the Fresno County Jail on felony DUI, DUI causing death, and vehicular manslaughter charges, according to the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office.
He has since posted bond and was released from jail on Sunday, according to authorities.
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Got a Tip?
The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact the Fresno Area CHP Public Information Officer at (559) 705-2200.
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