The Fresno County Coroner has identified the 13-year-old boy who tragically lost his life in a motorized scooter crash Friday night in Fresno. The victim, Dominiq Puentes of Fresno, was pronounced deceased following a collision involving a moped-style scooter and a pickup truck near Palm and Bullard Avenues at approximately 10:40 p.m.
Authorities initially reported the victim’s age as 17 but later issued a correction confirming he was 13 years old. According to the Fresno Police Department, Dominiq was the lead rider on the moped at the time of the crash. A 12-year-old passenger who was also involved in the incident remains hospitalized in critical condition.
Preliminary reports indicate that the moped collided with a white truck under circumstances that remain under investigation. The Fresno Police Department’s Collision Reconstruction Unit responded to the scene and has since cleared the roadway, though the investigation into the exact cause of the crash remains ongoing. Officials stated that it is still unclear whether the moped was fully traveling on the roadway or if it veered into the path of the vehicle prior to impact.
Dominiq Puentes was a student at Phoenix Secondary Academy and previously attended Tenaya Middle School within the Fresno Unified School District. School officials expressed deep sorrow over the loss, noting that Dominiq was remembered for his joyful spirit and warm smile, which positively impacted many within the school community.
Fresno Unified has made counseling and emotional support resources available for students and staff as they process the tragedy. The district has also encouraged families to speak with their children about grief and to utilize available support services.
As the investigation continues, authorities are asking anyone with information about the crash to come forward. The community continues to mourn the loss of a young life while hoping for the recovery of the injured child.
