1 Killed in Fatal 2-Car Accident on Villa Manucha Road

NEWMAN, CA (January 20, 2022) – Sunday morning, Saul Betancourt was killed and Maria Prado was hurt in a two-vehicle crash on River Road.

Crew responded to the intersection of River and Villa Manucha Road around 7:00 a.m. The accident involved a 2015 Chevy and a 2019 Nissan.

Per reports, a deputy responded to a call for help from a Newman Police Officer with his lights and sirens on.

For reasons unknown, the Chevy driver entered the intersection and drove into the path of the officer’s Nissan. Paramedics arrived and sent two people, including a sheriff’s deputy, to a hospital for major injuries.

Due to the impact of the collision, the 21-year-old driver of the Chevy later identified and Betancourt, died at the scene. Meanwhile, his 19-year-old passenger, Maria Prado, sustained major injuries.

Additionally, the 34-year-old deputy from Modesto also sustained significant injuries.

At this time, Newman officials are still currently working to identify the circumstances surrounding the crash.


The team at Sweet James sends out their heartfelt sympathies to the friends and family of Saul Betancourt who are grieving over the loss of their loved one.


It is important to have strong legal representation on your side when losing a loved one in a car accident. 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 (800) 975-3435 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. Click here to request a police report.

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