45-Year-Old Woman Dead, Wallowa Bates arrested after DUI Accident near International Avenue

FRESNO COUNTY, CA (July 11, 2023) – Late Monday afternoon, Jennifer Ellis was killed in a DUI collision on Minnewawa Avenue. The incident occurred around 4:30 p.m., near International Avenue. Per reports, the driver of a red Mercedes ran through a posted stop sign at a high rate of speed. There, the Mercedes struck a passing Honda. Medics arrived and pronounced the female driver of the Honda dead at the scene. Meanwhile, paramedics rushed the two children in the passenger seat, ages 8 and 10 to a nearby hospital. Police said the Mercedes driver did not sustain serious injuries. Fresno County Officials closed the northbound Willow Avenue, south of International Avenue, as units cleared out the scene. Following preliminary duties, officers determined that impairment did not play a factor. However, the driver of the Mercedes, 22-year-old Wallowa Bates was arrested for vehicular manslaughter. Medics transported Bates to a nearby hospital before booking her into Fresno County Jail with a $10,000 bond.
The team at Sweet James offers their warm and sincerest sympathies to the friends and family of Jennifer Ellis. May you find comfort and strength during this difficult time.
It is important to have strong legal representation on your side when losing a loved one in a DUI crash. Reach out to the wrongful death lawyers at Sweet James today. With 20 years of experience in the field, they know what it takes to help you win your case. Their team understands that nothing can alleviate the emotional pain of a death of a loved one, but they can help you seek justice and compensation. Call their office at 1-800-900-0000 for a free and confidential case evaluation. You can reach them 24 hours a day and 7 days a week through email, text, and online chat. For more accident news, click here.

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