Shante Vasquez Obituary, Death – A tragic incident in Fresno has left a family and community mourning after a woman was struck and killed by a suspected impaired driver while walking on a sidewalk. Authorities confirmed the victim’s identity as 30-year-old Shante Vasquez, whose life was cut short in the devastating crash.
The Fresno County Sheriff’s Office stated that officers responded on Sunday afternoon to the intersection of Olive Avenue and First Street following reports of a pedestrian being hit. When emergency responders arrived, they found Vasquez suffering from severe injuries. Despite their efforts, officials confirmed that she died at the scene from the trauma sustained in the collision.
Investigators quickly turned their attention to the driver accused of causing the deadly crash. Police identified the suspect as 47-year-old Akinyele Chatmon. Detectives at the scene determined that Chatmon had been driving while under the influence of both alcohol and drugs at the time of the incident. This finding elevated the severity of the case, as impaired driving remains one of the leading causes of fatal traffic collisions nationwide.
Authorities said Chatmon was arrested and later booked on a charge of felony DUI. Police emphasized that driving under the influence of multiple substances significantly increases the risk of catastrophic accidents, highlighting the seriousness of the charge he now faces.
The investigation into the crash is still active, as officers continue to gather evidence and piece together the events that led to the tragedy. Officials have not released details about how fast Chatmon may have been traveling or whether there were other aggravating factors, but they confirmed that the results of toxicology tests and witness statements will play a role in shaping the case.
For Fresno residents, the crash is yet another reminder of the dangers posed by reckless and impaired driving. Olive Avenue and First Street, where the incident occurred, is a busy intersection that sees heavy traffic and frequent pedestrian activity. The fact that the victim was on the sidewalk—a place meant to protect pedestrians—makes the loss even more difficult for many to accept.
Community members have expressed frustration and grief, saying incidents like this are preventable if drivers make responsible choices. The death of Vasquez, who was only 30 years old, underscores the devastating human cost of driving under the influence.
Police are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspected impaired drivers immediately, stressing that timely action can save lives. As the case moves forward, the Fresno Police Department and Sheriff’s Office are working together to ensure justice is served for Vasquez and her family.
The community now waits for further updates as investigators finalize their findings. For now, the crash stands as a somber reminder of how quickly lives can be shattered by one reckless decision. Authorities continue to stress the importance of sober driving, especially in urban areas where pedestrians are particularly vulnerable.
Shante Vasquez’s death marks a heartbreaking loss, leaving loved ones grieving and the Fresno community once again confronting the tragic consequences of DUI-related crashes.
