A close-knit family in Fresno County is grappling with overwhelming grief following a tragic incident that claimed the life of one of their own, 38-year-old Kenneth Owens. On Saturday morning, Owens was fatally struck by a vehicle while driving a Go-Kart on Mountain View Avenue near Peach Avenue, an area he had lived in and known well. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) responded to distress calls from the scene, only to find Owens unresponsive. Despite their efforts, he was pronounced dead at the site of the crash.
The driver involved in the collision was reportedly operating a Toyota Tacoma pick-up truck. Authorities believe the driver failed to stop after the accident, raising serious concerns and prompting a search for the individual responsible. According to CHP spokesperson Mike Salas, it is highly unlikely that the driver was unaware of the collision. “There’s absolutely no way in our mind that the party did not know they hit somebody or something,” Salas remarked, indicating that the truck would likely have visible front-end damage from the impact.
As the investigation continues, the driver of the Toyota Tacoma is facing two felony charges: vehicular manslaughter and hit-and-run. The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community, where Owens was known and loved by many. His sister, Rachelle Resendez, shared her deep sorrow and the immense loss felt by those who knew her brother. Owens, a man who brought joy to others through his work at Hobb’s Grove during the fall season, particularly during Halloween, is remembered fondly by his family and friends.
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“He’s had a lot of friends reaching out, a lot of family members, you know, close cousins, siblings. So, it definitely has really, really affected a lot of people,” Resendez shared, her voice heavy with emotion. She described her brother as someone who was deeply connected to his community, using his Go-Kart—a vehicle not designed for street use—to navigate the neighborhood he called home.
The loss of Owens has left a void that can never be filled. Resendez reminisced about the childhood memories she shared with her brother, recalling how he taught her to ride a bike and climb trees. These cherished moments now serve as a bittersweet reminder of the bond they shared. “He’s actually the one who taught me how to ride a bike, taught me how to climb trees, get in every ounce of trouble we could, so a lot of good memories with him,” Resendez recounted, her words painting a vivid picture of their sibling relationship.
In the wake of this devastating event, the Owens family has received an outpouring of love and support from the community, providing some comfort as they navigate their grief. However, the family remains focused on seeking justice for Kenneth, urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward. The CHP has emphasized that witnesses can provide tips anonymously, hoping that this might encourage more individuals to share any knowledge they may have about the hit-and-run.
In an effort to cover funeral expenses and honor Owens’ memory, the family has set up a donation page, inviting those who wish to help to contribute. The link to the donation page has been shared widely as the community rallies around the Owens family during this painful time.
The tragic loss of Kenneth Owens serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of hit-and-run incidents and the profound impact such events have on the lives of those left behind. As the investigation unfolds, the community remains united in their support for the Owens family, hoping that justice will be served, and that Owens’ memory will be honored in a way befitting the love and light he brought into the world.