Woman dies after rollover crash

A woman has died from her injuries after being thrown from her vehicle in a rollover accident in Madera.

According to California Highway Patrol spokesman, Officer Josh McConnell, Flor Rivera, 25, was traveling east on Avenue 17, Thursday, when, at approximately 5:52 a.m., her vehicle drifted off the roadway west of Road 23 for reasons that are yet to be determined. It was at this point, McConnell reported, that the vehicle went into an almond orchard, and turned over.

“Because that driver was not wearing her seatbelt, unfortunately, she was ejected from her vehicle,” McConnell said. “And sustained major injuries.”

According to McConnell, the 911 call was likely made by a passer-by on the road, at which point CHP Officers Brandon Simonson and Salvador Bautista found the victim, and proceeded to attempt CPR until paramedics arrived. She was then taken to Madera Community Hospital. She died Friday morning as a result of her injuries.

McConnell has stated that while the investigation is ongoing, there is no suspicion that alcohol or drugs were involved in the accident. Her death, however, could have reportedly been easily prevented.

“The investigating officer truly believes that a major injury could have seriously been avoided if the driver had been wearing her seatbelt,” McConnell said.