FRESNO, Calif. — The Fresno community is mourning the tragic loss of Maxwell Thompson, 16, a student at Justin Garza High School, who was killed Thursday morning, February 5, 2026, while attempting to cross Highway 99 near the Herndon Avenue off-ramp.
According to the California Highway Patrol, Thompson was crossing the northbound lanes toward the center divider when he was struck by a pickup truck. Officers and emergency medical personnel arrived within minutes and attempted life-saving measures, but tragically, Thompson was pronounced dead at the scene. The Fresno County Coroner’s Office confirmed his identity on Friday.
Thompson’s untimely death marks the second pedestrian fatality along Highway 99 in the past two weeks. Late last month, a 37-year-old man was struck and killed while walking in traffic on southbound 99 near Fresno Street. Authorities continue to urge drivers to report anyone walking along, or attempting to cross, a freeway, emphasizing that freeways are designed for high-speed travel and leave little time to react to unexpected hazards.
Maxwell Thompson was remembered by family, friends, classmates, and the community as a bright and vibrant young life, taken far too soon. His passing leaves a profound void among those who knew him and a somber reminder of the dangers pedestrians face on high-speed roadways.
The Fresno community extends its deepest condolences to Thompson’s family and loved ones during this difficult time. His memory will be cherished, and his life celebrated by all who were touched by his presence.
