Elsa Gonzales Killed in Crash Chestnut Avenue in Fresno County

Woman, 43, Identified as Driver Killed in Crash with Big Rig Truck Trailer

FRESNO COUNTY, Calif. — Elsa Gonzales, 43, of Fresno, was killed Monday morning after her sedan crashed into a truck’s trailer carrying a modular classroom on Chestnut Avenue in Fresno County, according to the California Highway Patrol.

The fatal collision was reported at approximately 7:15 a.m. on June 29 at the intersection of Chestnut Avenue and Arnold Way.

Investigators said a Peterbilt truck tractor hauling a modular classroom was stopped on westbound Arnold Way before entering the uncontrolled intersection to make a left turn onto southbound Chestnut Avenue. After waiting for southbound traffic to clear, the commercial truck driver proceeded into the intersection.

At about the same time, Gonzales was driving a northbound Acura TL on Chestnut Avenue. For reasons that remain under investigation, the Acura struck the left rear portion of the trailer.

Following the impact, the Acura traveled northeast into the parking lots of the Red Triangle Oil Company and Flyers Filling Station before swerving back onto the roadway. The vehicle eventually came to rest in the northbound lanes of Chestnut Avenue, partially on the center median south of Annadale Avenue.

Gonzales suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.

The commercial truck driver was not injured, remained at the scene, and is cooperating with investigators.

The CHP said neither alcohol nor drugs are believed to have played a role in the crash.

The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone who witnessed the collision or has information about the crash is asked to contact the CHP Fresno Area office at (559) 705-2200.