MADERA – Two people were killed following a head on automobile collision late Saturday afternoon near the Madera Rancho’s on Avenue 12. According to the California Highway Patrol a black Audio traveling eastbound when it drifted into the westbound lane colliding with a Toyota 4-Runner.
The seventeen year old driver of the Audi was pronounced dead at the scene. He has been identified as Troyce Raqueno of Madera. He was a student at Madera High School in the senior class graduating in just three months. An 11 year old passenger of the Toyota also died. The young man was identified as Christian Lopez (11) of Madera. He was also from Madera and a student at Washington Elementary School.
There were five people in the Toyota, including three children. One victim was airlifted to a hospital, while the others were taken by ground ambulance. The fatal crash happened 4:25 p.m. at the intersection of Avenue 12 and Avenue 34 1/2.
The road at Avenue 12 was closed for hours while evidence from the scene was collected and photographed by the CHP Major Accident Investigation Team (MAIT). It is unknown if speed, distracted driving or intoxication played a part in the crash. An investigation is still ongoing.
Two Go Fund Me accounts have been set up to cover the funeral expenses for the both young men. Christian Lopez & Troyce Raqueno..