Three children were endangered but not seriously injured after a crash involving a wanted inmate who failed to return from a court-approved day pass in Madera County on Friday, June 13, 2025.
According to the Madera County Sheriff’s Office, 30-year-old Michael S. was granted temporary release on Wednesday to attend his grandmother’s funeral in Salinas. He was due to return by 7:00 p.m., but never came back. Sanchez had been serving a two-year sentence for domestic violence, criminal threats, and probation violations.
On Friday, around 11:00 a.m., deputies observed Michael S. being picked up near an orchard along Avenue 23 by his girlfriend, 29-year-old Marie P. A short time later, the pair switched seats, and Michael S. began driving. Deputies attempted to intercept the vehicle but chose not to pursue after seeing two children inside.
Michael S. later crashed into another vehicle carrying a woman and two small children at Avenue 7 and Road 23. He fled the scene on foot but was located and taken into custody within 30 minutes with assistance from department aircraft and Fresno County’s Eagle 1 helicopter.
All three children in the suspect’s vehicle were placed in Child Protective Services custody. No serious injuries were reported from the crash.
Don’t Know What To Do After An Accident?
Your safety and rights depend on what you do next after an accident. Remember the following steps if you find yourself in one:
- Check yourself for any injuries.
- Stay on the scene, call 9-1-1, and wait for emergency responders.
- Move your vehicle to the road shoulder if safe; turn on hazard lights.
- Fully cooperate with law enforcement and stay until cleared to leave.
- Document the scene and injuries with photos and videos.
- Seek immediate medical attention.
- Contact your insurance company and find a personal injury lawyer for legal advice.
What A Lawyer Can Do For You
Many victims put off calling a lawyer even if they sustain injuries after an accident. However, lawyers can help you in many ways. They can provide you with police reports, CCTV footage, and witness statements to strengthen your case. Your attorney will also negotiate with insurance companies to get you fair compensation. The best part is that they will do all of these things for you at no upfront cost. So if you’re injured in an accident, hire a personal injury attorney to recover medical bills, car repair costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
