O’NEALS — A four-car crash on Highway 41 in the early morning hours has claimed the life of a young woman from Oakhurst.
Just before 1 a.m. on Saturday, June 18, Ruby Alvarez, 24, was southbound in a Honda Civic, just south of Road 200, when she crossed over the double yellow lines into oncoming traffic, crashing head-on into a northbound Nissan Altima, according to CHP at the scene.
Nissan Altima catches fire in Highway 41 crash
The Altima was then struck from behind by a Honda Accord, and burst into flames. The fire spread into vegetation on the east side of the road, but firefighters were able to contain it to a small spot.
A fourth vehicle was also caught up in the accident, but suffered only minor damage.
Alvarez was critically injured and was airlifted by SkyLife to Community Regional Medical Center, where she succumbed to her injuries. Her 2-year-old daughter, who was a passenger in the car, suffered major injuries and was taken by ground ambulance to Valley Children’s Hospital. She remains in critical condition.
Nissan Altima and Honda Accord at Highway 41 crash
There were two occupants from Sanger in the Nissan, and the driver of the Accord was from Fresno. All suffered major injuries and were transported to CRMC.
The roadway was closed down in both directions until 3:35 a.m.
The accident remains under investigation.
To contribute to the fund for Ruby’s daughter Lucy, who remains hospitalized, please visit Alvarez Family Support Fund – Funds raised through this account shall be utilized for funeral services for Ruby, medical care for Lucy, travel expenses, and monetary relief and support for the family as they cope with this horrific loss and tragedy.
To read the story of a rescuer who stayed with baby Lucy until she could be transported to the hospital, click here.
