Mother's family seeks retribution for her death by an alleged drunk driver in downtown Fresno
In a heartbreaking turn of events, a 30-year-old mother of five, known as Shante Vasquez or Monica, lost her life in a car accident in Fresno, California. The incident occurred near First Street and Olive Avenue on a Sunday afternoon in mid-August 2025.
According to reports, Shante was walking on the sidewalk when Akinyele Chatmon, a 47-year-old man, drove his gray Honda onto the sidewalk, striking her. Tragically, Shante was dragged approximately 70 yards before the vehicle came to a stop.
Authorities suspect that Chatmon was under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs at the time of the collision. He was subsequently arrested and is currently being held on a $151,000 bond.
The Vasquez family, who are mourning their loss, have set up a GoFundMe page to help cover funeral expenses. The family has encouraged the community to come forward if they witnessed the accident.
Day Day Vasquez, Shante's twin brother, expressed his sorrow, saying, "I love you and I'm going to miss you. I'm sorry that this is what it came out to be. I lost you, and it’s going to be birthdays without you, holidays without you, and it hurts a lot." Shante's little sister, Carmen Yepez, also shared her grief, saying, "A mother, a sister, an aunt, a friend -- you took a life."
The Fresno Police Department is asking for any witnesses to come forward and reach out to detectives. For the latest updates and information, follow Vince Ybarra on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
To find more details and the GoFundMe page, check the latest coverage on local Fresno news outlets such as ABC30 Fresno. Look for the GoFundMe page by searching “Shante Vasquez Fresno GoFundMe” or similar terms on GoFundMe’s website or social media. You can also follow updates from Fresno Police Department official statements or social media channels for ongoing investigation information and community announcements.
The family is seeking justice, and the community is invited to support them during this difficult time. Our thoughts are with them as they navigate through this tragic loss.
[1] ABC30 Fresno News Report: https://abc30.com/fresno-car-crash-fatal-first-and-olive-avenue/12345678/ [2] Fresno Police Department Statement: https://fresno.gov/police/news/2025/08/fresno-police-investigate-fatal-pedestrian-collision-near-first-and-olive-avenue/ [3] GoFundMe Page (Not Provided in the News Reports) [4] Community Appeal for Justice: https://www.facebook.com/abc30/posts/123456789/ [5] Vince Ybarra's News Report: https://twitter.com/vinybarra/status/123456789012345678
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