Farmworkers killed in Kerman crash remembered a year later

FRESNO COUNTY, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) – It’s been one year since eight men, seven of whom were farm workers, were killed in a head-on collision in Madera County. The crash happened near Avenue 7 and Road 22.

CHP Madera Spokesperson Sergio Moreno says the investigation is still under review but is expected to be released within the next week. He adds that investigations, especially of this nature and seriousness, can take about a year to complete.

On February 24, 2024, Avenue 7 near Kerman was a scene of heartbreak and chaos. Ambulances and first responders rushed to the site, while distraught family members gathered, desperate for answers. 

Around 6 a.m., a truck collided with a van carrying farm workers, leaving the front of the van completely smashed in. While the investigation is ongoing, CHP believes the truck crossed the center line. The truck driver and seven of the eight farm workers died. The workers were headed to Lion Farms in Firebaugh.

“The community definitely went through the grief together, it was definitely an emotional toll on all,” said Kerman Mayor Maria Pacheco.

On Monday, the crash site served as a touching reminder of the eight lives lost. Crosses of all sizes stand, surrounded by candles, flowers, and balloons. A small palm tree sits at the end, symbolizing new life in a place marked by such deep loss.

“I know that their families went through, went through a lot after they had passed. I know of a family that was evicted from their place of living. It’s very difficult when you lose the head of the household,” Pacheco shared.

Through such a traumatic event, Kerman Mayor Maria Pacheco recalls how quickly the community united to support the families during a time of great need.

 “We collectively, we got together and we advocated and raised money and we were able to get all seven of them back home to Mexico,” she added.

Following the crash, CHP reported that only two of the eight farm workers were wearing seatbelts. We will continue to follow this incident and share the findings as soon as the official report is released.