Father and Son Die Together in Tragic Crash

A fatal collision on Wednesday night in Madera County resulted in the tragic deaths of a father and his 13-year-old son. Pedro Chavez and his son, Pedro Jr. (Pedrito), were killed when the car they occupied was struck by a truck that reportedly disregarded a stop sign at Road 9 and Avenue 21.

The father and son were on their way home from their first dove hunting excursion of the season. Family members became worried when the pair did not return and, upon tracking their phones, discovered them at the crash site. The doves they had hunted were found at the scene.

Family members described the father and son as an inseparable duo, noting that Pedrito, an eighth-grader, was known for his love of music and was weeks away from his 14th birthday. His soccer jersey, guitar, and awards remain in his room.

The driver of the car, Pedro Chavez's uncle, was the only survivor. He sustained severe injuries, including broken ribs and hand fractures, and is currently hospitalized and receiving pain medication. The California Highway Patrol is continuing its investigation into the crash, and it has not been determined if impairment was a factor.

Dozens of relatives gathered to support each other, with some traveling from Washington state. Pedro Chavez was one of 14 children, and his Merced home was a central gathering place for family.