A family in Fresno, California, is mourning a devastating loss after a mother and her young son were killed in a tragic hit-and-run crash following an Easter celebration.
Martha Hernandez, 41, and her 9-year-old son Adrian Hernandez were returning home in the early morning hours of April 7, 2026, when the crash occurred.
Crash Sends Vehicle Into Canal
According to the Fresno Police Department, officers responded to the scene around 2 a.m. after receiving reports of a serious crash.
When they arrived, they found one abandoned vehicle on the roadway and another — driven by Hernandez — submerged in a nearby canal. First responders pulled Martha from the vehicle and attempted lifesaving measures before transporting her to the hospital, where she later died.
At the time, authorities were unaware that her son had also been in the car.
Search for Missing Child Ends in Tragedy
Hours later, crews learned that Adrian had been inside the vehicle during the crash. Rescue teams returned to the scene and began an extensive search along the canal.
According to Billy Alcorn, crews searched for hours, even using drones to scan the area. Eventually, Adrian’s body was found two miles downstream, confirming the heartbreaking loss.
Suspect Turns Himself In
The driver accused of causing the crash, Timothy Seth Chavez, 22, turned himself in to authorities nearly 24 hours later.
Police believe Chavez ran a red light and slammed into Hernandez’s SUV, sending it into the canal. A witness told investigators that Chavez appeared to be intoxicated at the time of the crash. After the collision, he allegedly fled the scene on foot.
Chavez has since been charged with:
- Two counts of gross vehicular manslaughter
- Two counts of felony hit-and-run
- Driving without insurance
- Driving on a suspended license
Family Grieves and Seeks Support
The loss has deeply impacted the family, especially Hernandez’s surviving son. A GoFundMe has been set up by her niece to help cover funeral costs and support the family during this difficult time.
In the fundraiser, her niece described Martha as a devoted Christian who was deeply committed to her family and church. She also remembered Adrian as a kind and joyful child who loved school and being involved in church activities.
The family now faces not only emotional pain but also the financial burden of funeral arrangements, including plans to return Martha to her hometown in Mexico.
A Community in Mourning
The tragedy has left the community shaken, as a holiday meant for celebration turned into a heartbreaking loss. Authorities continue to investigate the case as the family mourns the loss of both a mother and a young child.
