William Haywood Obituary, Death – Authorities in Fresno have released the identity of a man who was killed after being struck by a vehicle late Saturday night. According to the Fresno County Coroner’s Office, the victim has been identified as 60-year-old William Haywood, a resident of Fresno.
The fatal incident occurred on Saturday evening, prompting an emergency response by the Fresno Police Department. Officers were dispatched to the area of Blackstone Avenue near Saginaw Way shortly after 11:15 p.m., following reports of a pedestrian being hit by a vehicle.
Upon arrival, officers found Haywood lying in the roadway with critical injuries consistent with being struck by a car. Despite efforts from emergency responders, he was pronounced dead at the scene. His death marked another tragic loss on one of Fresno’s busier thoroughfares.
Authorities reported that the driver involved in the incident stayed at the location and is fully cooperating with the investigation. At this time, there is no indication that the driver attempted to flee, and the individual has spoken with investigators as they work to piece together the circumstances of the crash.
Investigators have not released specific details about what led up to the collision. It remains unclear whether Haywood was attempting to cross the street, walking along the roadway, or if other factors played a role. There has been no immediate word on whether speed, visibility, or any form of distraction contributed to the tragedy.
The Fresno Police Department has not provided information on whether Haywood was using a designated crosswalk or if he was in an unlit or hazardous portion of the road when he was struck. Given the time of night, limited visibility may have been a contributing factor, though authorities have not made any formal conclusions.
As of now, no charges have been filed against the driver, and law enforcement officials have indicated that the person behind the wheel is cooperating fully as the investigation continues. Police have not disclosed the identity of the driver, and it is unknown whether they were tested for impairment, though there has been no indication from authorities that drugs or alcohol were involved.
The area where the accident took place—Blackstone Avenue near Saginaw Way—is a heavily trafficked corridor in Fresno, lined with businesses and often busy even during late hours. Pedestrian activity in this area can be significant, and past incidents have highlighted safety concerns, particularly at night when visibility is reduced.
Following the incident, traffic on Blackstone Avenue was temporarily disrupted as police conducted their preliminary investigation. Officers worked to gather evidence, take witness statements, and document the scene in order to determine how the crash occurred and whether any traffic violations were involved.
William Haywood’s death has saddened those in the local community. Though little personal information has been released about him, news of his passing has prompted reflection among area residents about pedestrian safety and the risks that come with navigating busy roads, especially after dark.
Fatal pedestrian collisions remain a growing concern in many urban areas, including Fresno. As more residents walk or use public transportation, the need for increased crosswalks, better lighting, and driver awareness becomes more evident. City officials and law enforcement agencies frequently urge both drivers and pedestrians to exercise caution, particularly during nighttime hours when accidents are more likely.
As the Fresno Police Department continues its investigation, they are expected to review surveillance footage from nearby businesses or traffic cameras to better understand the moments leading up to the collision. They may also examine weather conditions, vehicle speed, and the pedestrian’s movements to determine how the incident unfolded.
The coroner’s office is working closely with law enforcement to finalize their report and ensure that Haywood’s family receives accurate information about his passing. Funeral arrangements have not been publicly announced.
In the meantime, the community awaits further details and hopes that a thorough investigation will bring clarity to what caused this tragic event. Authorities have not indicated whether any citations or charges are likely, and they have reiterated that the driver is cooperating and that the incident is under active review.
Anyone who may have witnessed the collision or has relevant information is encouraged to contact the Fresno Police Department. Public input can often help fill gaps in investigations, and officials are urging community members to come forward if they saw anything that might assist in understanding what led to Haywood’s death.
For now, the city mourns the loss of William Haywood, as another pedestrian death adds to a growing list of tragedies that highlight the urgent need for improved road safety across Fresno.
