Fresno Community Mourns the Tragic Death of 23-Year-Old Derrick Trujillo in High-Speed Crash During Police Pursuit

FRESNO, CA — The Fresno community is reeling after the devastating loss of 23-year-old Derrick Trujillo, who tragically died early Sunday morning, April 27, 2025, in a high-speed crash that ended a brief police pursuit. The heartbreaking incident occurred around 2:30 a.m. along Highway 180, near the Temperance Avenue off-ramp.

According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP) and Fresno Police Department officials, officers initially attempted to pull over a vehicle for suspected traffic violations and reckless driving near downtown Fresno. However, the driver, later identified as Trujillo, failed to stop and sped away, initiating a pursuit.

Authorities say that the chase was short-lived but reached dangerously high speeds. As Trujillo approached the Temperance Avenue exit, he lost control of his vehicle. Witnesses report that his car veered off the highway, struck a guardrail, and rolled multiple times before coming to a rest. The force of the crash caused catastrophic damage to the vehicle.

Emergency crews were dispatched immediately, but despite life-saving efforts at the scene, Derrick Trujillo was pronounced dead. No other vehicles were involved in the collision, and no officers or bystanders were injured during the incident.

A Promising Young Life Cut Short

Family members and friends have expressed deep sorrow and disbelief over Derrick’s sudden passing. Trujillo, a Fresno native, was described by those who knew him as a vibrant, kind-hearted young man with dreams of building a career in automotive repair and design. His passion for cars and mechanics was well known among his peers and was a source of pride for his family.

“He loved life, loved his family, and loved cars,” said Maria Trujillo, Derrick’s mother, through tears. “He made mistakes, like we all do, but he had a good heart and big dreams.”

Friends also took to social media to mourn Derrick’s passing, remembering his sense of humor, his loyalty, and his passion for everything he set his mind to.

“He was always the guy who made you smile, even on your worst days,” said childhood friend Javier Mendez. “He had so much life ahead of him. It just doesn’t seem real.”

Community Impact and Ongoing Investigation

The incident has sparked renewed conversations in Fresno about high-speed pursuits and the tragic consequences they can bring. Fresno Police Chief Paco Balderrama expressed condolences to the Trujillo family during a press briefing on Sunday afternoon, emphasizing that the department reviews every pursuit to ensure proper protocols are followed.

“We are heartbroken over the loss of a young life,” Chief Balderrama said. “While we must enforce public safety, we also recognize the risks inherent in pursuits. We are committed to transparency and will review all aspects of this incident thoroughly.”

The California Highway Patrol is leading the investigation into the crash, including whether substances, mechanical failure, or other factors may have contributed to Derrick losing control of the vehicle.

Officials are also urging the community to exercise caution on the roads and reminding drivers that fleeing from police can have devastating consequences not just for the driver, but for the entire community.

Memorials and Tributes

Plans are underway to honor Derrick’s memory. His family announced that a candlelight vigil will be held later this week at Roosevelt Park, a place where Derrick spent many afternoons with friends growing up. Community members are invited to attend, share memories, and pay tribute to a life gone too soon.

In addition, a GoFundMe page has been established to assist the Trujillo family with funeral expenses. Within hours of its creation, hundreds of dollars had already been donated by friends, family, and even strangers moved by Derrick’s story.

The Trujillo family expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and support they have received during this unimaginable time.

“Derrick’s light touched so many people,” said his sister, Bianca Trujillo. “We just hope that others will remember him for the good person he was — for his laughter, his dreams, and his love.”

Funeral arrangements are being finalized and will be announced by the family in the coming days.

A Heartfelt Goodbye

As Fresno grieves, one thing is clear: Derrick Trujillo’s death has left a void in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. His memory will live on in the stories shared by his family and friends, in the laughter he inspired, and in the dreams he encouraged others to chase.

In a community already familiar with loss, Derrick’s passing is a painful reminder of the fragility of life — and the need to cherish every moment.