Update: Man killed in January crash with big rig in Fresno identified
AI-generated summary reviewed by our newsroom.
- CHP reports a pickup driver died after colliding with a northbound tomato big rig.
- Dense morning fog and possible speed reduced visibility before the impact.
- CHP investigates whether the big rig executed an unsafe turn; driver cooperated.
The driver killed in a two-vehicle crash in Fresno County two weeks ago has been identified.
Fresno County Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Tony Botti said Michael Molano, 23, of Fresno was driving the pickup truck that collided with a big rig on Jan. 18.
The California Highway Patrol said the crash occurred at 7:30 a.m. on Clovis Avenue near Golden State Boulevard and involved a big rig hauling tomatoes and a Chevy S-10 pickup truck.
CHP spokesperson Mike Salas said the big rig was traveling northbound on Clovis Avenue when it attempted a left or U-turn at Golden State Boulevard.
As the truck turned, the pickup collided with the right side of the trailer, unable to spot it in time due to reduced visibility.
After the impact, the big rig continued north with the pickup trapped beneath the trailer, Salas said. A small fire broke out, burning part of the trailer and the pickup truck.
The pickup driver was pronounced dead at the scene. The big rig driver was not injured and remained on scene, cooperating with authorities.
“Fog was definitely a factor due to the dense visibility,” Salas said, adding that speed may have also contributed to the crash.
The CHP is investigating whether the big rig driver made an unsafe turn.
This story was originally published January 18, 2026 at 11:57 AM.
