Heartbroken Family Seeks Justice After Hit-and-Run Kills Fresno Man Driving Go-Kart

FRESNO COUNTY, CA — A Fresno County family is grieving after a tragic hit-and-run crash took the life of 38-year-old Kenneth Owens on Saturday morning. The incident occurred near Mountain View Avenue and Peach Avenue, where Owens was struck while driving his Go-Kart.

Authorities from the California Highway Patrol (CHP) responded to the scene after receiving calls about the crash. When they arrived, Owens was found unresponsive and was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver responsible for the collision did not stop to check on Owens, fleeing the scene in a Toyota Tacoma pick-up truck.

CHP Officer Mike Salas emphasized the severity of the situation, noting that the truck likely has noticeable front-end damage. “There’s absolutely no way in our mind that the party did not know they hit somebody or something,” Salas said. He also mentioned that it’s unclear whether the driver knew Owens. Authorities are actively searching for the suspect, who faces potential felony charges for vehicular manslaughter and hit-and-run.

Owens’ sister, Rachelle Resendez, expressed the deep sorrow felt by her family and friends. She shared that her brother lived in the area and used the Go-Kart for short trips despite it not being street-legal. “He had a lot of friends reaching out, a lot of family members, close cousins, siblings. It definitely has really, really affected a lot of people,” Resendez said.

Kenneth Owens was known for his love of Halloween and his enthusiasm for working at Hobb’s Grove during the fall season. Resendez fondly recalled the memories she shared with her brother from their childhood. “He’s actually the one who taught me how to ride a bike, taught me how to climb trees, and get into every ounce of trouble we could,” she shared.

The support pouring in from the community has been a source of comfort for the grieving family as they navigate this difficult time. A donation page has been set up to assist with funeral expenses. The CHP is urging anyone with information about the crash to come forward. Witnesses are reminded that they can provide information anonymously. As the investigation continues, the family holds on to the hope that justice will be served for Kenneth Owens.