Fatal Crash – Avenue 7 west of Road 35 

June 9, 2026 – Madera CHP officials report that on June 5, 2026, at approximately 6:05 p.m., CHP Madera officers responded to a solo-vehicle crash involving a motorcycle, in the area of Avenue 7 and Road 35.

Upon arrival, officers contacted the motorcycle rider, who was alert and conscious and able to provide a statement. He stated that he was traveling eastbound on Avenue 7 at approximately 55 mph when a dog ran into the roadway from the south shoulder.

A preliminary investigation indicates that a 42-year-old male from Fresno, California, was riding a 2012 Yamaha motorcycle eastbound on Avenue 7 and approaching Road 35. He subsequently veered off the roadway and onto the south dirt shoulder. During the crash, the rider was ejected from the motorcycle and sustained major injuries. He was transported by ambulance to Community Regional Medical Center in Fresno. While at the hospital, the rider succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased.

This crash remains under investigation. Alcohol and/or drugs do not appear to have been factors in this crash. The rider was wearing a safety helmet at the time of the crash.

While your instinct may be to avoid an animal in the roadway, sudden swerving can lead to devastating crashes with other vehicles, trees, or fixed objects. If an animal appears in your path, slow down, brake safely, and stay in your lane. A controlled response can prevent a tragic outcome.

Source & photo: Madera CHP