By DJ Becker / The Madera News January 24th, 2022
An 18-year-old Madera woman was killed Monday morning in a solo vehicle crash on State Route 145 near Ave 8 1/2, according to the California Highway Patrol, when she lost control and went off the right side of the road just after 9 am, struck a tree and overturned before being ejected from the car.
Authorities have identified the fatality as Ruth Herrera, 18, of Madera. Motorists reported seeing the southbound Scicon car drift back and forth in the lane before going off the roadway. Herrera was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash according to officers, and distracted driving is a factor under investigation. Conditions at the time were clear and dry. Bystanders attempted to assist Herrera but she was pronounced dead at the scene.
Officers encourage all drivers to wear their seatbelts, slow down and eliminate distractions while behind the wheel.
