The Fresno County community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Dominiq Puentes, a 13-year-old boy whose life was tragically cut short following a motorized scooter crash on Friday night.

According to the Fresno County Coroner, Dominiq was involved in a collision between a moped-style scooter and a pickup truck near the intersection of Palm and Bullard Avenues at approximately 10:40 p.m. Emergency responders arrived at the scene, but despite their efforts, Dominiq was pronounced deceased.

Authorities initially reported the victim’s age incorrectly but later confirmed that he was just 13 years old. Dominiq was the lead rider on the scooter at the time of the crash. A 12-year-old passenger who was also involved in the incident remains hospitalized in critical condition.

Preliminary findings indicate that the scooter collided with a white truck under circumstances that are still under active investigation. Officials have not yet determined whether the scooter was fully on the roadwayor if it entered the truck’s path before impact. The Fresno Police Department’s Collision Reconstruction Unit continues to examine the details surrounding the crash.

Dominiq was a student at Phoenix Secondary Academy and had previously attended Tenaya Middle School within the Fresno Unified School District. He is remembered by classmates, teachers, and community members for his bright spirit, warm smile, and the positive energy he brought into the lives of those around him.

In response to the tragedy, Fresno Unified has made counseling and emotional support services available to students and staff. The district is encouraging families to speak openly with their children and seek support as they process this devastating loss.

As the investigation continues, authorities are asking anyone with information about the incident to come forward. Meanwhile, the community grieves the loss of a young life filled with promise and holds onto hope for the recovery of the injured child.

Dominiq Puentes will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved him.