A Tragic Hit-and-Run Claims a Young Father's Life in San Bernadino California

California Sacramento Car Crash accident attorney lawyer fred frank penney penny bank on frank

A family in San Bernardino County is grappling with unimaginable loss after their 21-year-old son, Michael Yanez, was struck and killed in a heartbreaking hit-and-run accident. Michael, a devoted father to a 1-year-old daughter, Aliyah, and a newborn son, Jeremiah, was just beginning to build a life with his high school sweetheart, Berneice Aguilar.

The crash occurred on the evening of November 30, just after 5:30 p.m., on 8th Street east of San Antonio Avenue in Upland. According to a statement from the Upland Police Department, Michael was hit by not one but two cars.

A Good Samaritan, who arrived shortly after the accident, tried to comfort Michael in his final moments. “He went to my son, and my son was still alive when he talked to him,” Michael’s mother, Christina, shared through tears. “He told him help was on the way and prayed with him, but by the time police arrived, he was gone.”

What makes this tragedy even more shocking is the response of one of the drivers involved. According to Christina, the driver stopped, approached the Good Samaritan, and asked if it was a dead body. When told it was, he got back in his car and drove away.

Michael’s loved ones describe him as a kind, ambitious young man and a loving father. He dreamed of providing a better life for his family and was determined to buy a home for them. “He was a really good dad,” Berneice said. “He helped me out so much, especially after my C-sections. I fell in love with him all over again because of how much he cared for us.”

Now, Michael’s family is struggling to envision a future without him. “We just feel like he’s going to walk through that door,” Christina said. “I don’t feel like it’s rea

The Upland Police Department is actively investigating the hit-and-run but has yet to announce any arrests. They’ve indicated that more information will be released soon.

Experience unparalleled legal representation with Frank Penney Injury Lawyers, the esteemed recipients of the CAOC Trial Attorney of the Year award. With over two decades of dedicated service, our team has consistently delivered record-setting results for accident victims in Northern, Central, and Southern California. Enjoy peace of mind with our no upfront fees policy. Contact us today at 888-888-0566 or through our website www.penneylaw.com for a FREE consultation.

Frank Penney Injury Lawyers does not represent any of the parties mentioned above. Nevertheless, we sympathize with the victim and their families in this time of crisis.

< Older Post

Newer Post >

No Fee Guarantee!

Our legal team understands that life can be very stressful after an accident of any type. The financial costs of your accident can add to that stress. When you are asking for help, this should make your life easier – not more difficult. That is why you do not have to worry about any upfront legal fees and expenses when you hire Frank Penney Injury Lawyers to handle your California personal injury case.

At Frank Penney Injury Lawyers, Frank Penney and his staff work on a contingency basis. This means you only have to pay a fee if you win your case. We will never charge a fee unless we obtain a settlement on your behalf. No win. No fee. Case closed.

This means there is no risk in asking Frank Penney Injury Lawyers for help. You get to benefit from Frank Penney’s years of experience, knowledge, and success without needing to stress about the cost. Call today to set up a free initial case assessment or to learn more.

When I first contacted the Law Offices of Frank D. Penney after my accident, I was frustrated with car insurance companies, and medical insurance companies; after all, I was in pain. He and his staff put me at ease instantly! It was such a relief to have someone working on MY BEHALF! They were able to settle my case for more than I initially thought it was worth. THANKS AGAIN!!!

- KRISTA H.

Why Choose Us?

If You Don’t Win, You Don’t Pay
Free Case Evaluations
Over 25 Years of Experience

Compassionate and Caring
Highly Rated Reviews
Proven Track Record

24/7 Availability
Quick Response Time
And More

Our Recent Blog Posts

Driver Dies After Street Sweeper Hits Big Rig on Manteca Off-Ramp

By Frank Penney • July 2, 2025

Tragedy struck Monday morning in Manteca when a street sweeper collided with a parked big rig, leading to the death of one person, according to the California Highway Patrol. The accident happened around 8:27 a.m. on the southbound off-ramp from Highway 99 to Lathrop Road. Authorities reported that the big rig was stopped on the right shoulder, safely out of the traffic lanes. For reasons still under investigation, a street sweeper traveling at approximately 40 miles per hour struck the rear of the big rig. The driver of the street sweeper was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash and suffered critical injuries. Emergency responders transported the driver to a nearby hospital, but despite efforts to save their life, the driver was later pronounced dead. The CHP did not release the driver’s identity. The big rig had a passenger onboard who fortunately was not injured. At this time, the CHP does not believe that drugs or alcohol played a role in the collision. Authorities are continuing their investigation and are asking anyone with information about the crash to contact the California Highway Patrol at 209-938-4800. Experience unparalleled legal representation with Frank Penney Injury Law , the esteemed recipients of the CAOC Trial Attorney of the Year award. With over two decades of dedicated service, our team has consistently delivered record-setting results for accident victims in Northern, Central, and Southern California. Enjoy peace of mind with our no upfront fees policy. Contact us today at 888-888-0566 or through our website www.penneylaw.com for a FREE consultation. Frank Penney Injury Law does not represent any of the parties mentioned above. Nevertheless, we sympathize with the victim and their families in this time of crisis.

New No Touch Law for Cell Phones in California

By Frank Penney • June 30, 2025

Discover how California’s new “No Touch” cell phone law redefines distracted driving in 2025.

Driver Seriously Injured in Highway 99 Crash Near Fresno Street

By Frank Penney • June 11, 2025

A driver was seriously injured Saturday evening in a crash on Highway 99 near Fresno Street, according to the California Highway Patrol. The incident occurred on the southbound shoulder of the highway, where a commercial big rig had pulled over due to mechanical issues. As the truck sat stopped on the shoulder, a Ford Taurus traveling at high speed veered onto the same shoulder and slammed into the back of the trailer. Authorities say the Taurus appeared to be driving recklessly before the collision. The impact left the car heavily damaged, and the driver—who was not wearing a seatbelt—was rushed to a local hospital with major injuries. “Our hearts go out to the injured driver,” the CHP said in a statement. “This incident serves as a stark reminder that excessive speed and reckless behavior can have devastating consequences.” The CHP is using the crash as an opportunity to remind all motorists to drive responsibly, follow traffic laws, and always wear a seatbelt. Experience unparalleled legal representation with Frank Penney Injury Law , the esteemed recipients of the CAOC Trial Attorney of the Year award. With over two decades of dedicated service, our team has consistently delivered record-setting results for accident victims in Northern, Central, and Southern California. Enjoy peace of mind with our no upfront fees policy. Contact us today at 888-888-0566 or through our website www.penneylaw.com for a FREE consultation. Frank Penney Injury Lawyers does not represent any of the parties mentioned above. Nevertheless, we sympathize with the victim and their families in this time of crisis.

24/7 Availability – Reach Us by Phone, Email, Chat and More!

If you are involved in any type of personal injury due to the fault of someone else, our experienced team at Frank Penney Injury Lawyers in Roseville, CA can help. We are available to anyone in Northern California 24/7! Give us a call today to learn more at 888-888-0566. We will fight for your rights!