Fresno, California – The Clovis community is in mourning after the tragic death of 16-year-old Austin Ly, a student at Clovis East High School, who was killed in a motorcycle accident on Tuesday, September 10, 2024. The fatal crash occurred at the intersection of Fowler and Tulare Avenue shortly after 4:00 p.m., shaking the entire community.
According to reports from the Fresno Police Department, Austin Ly was riding his motorcycle when he ran a red light at the intersection. As he attempted to pass through, a car making a turn collided with his motorcycle. The impact of the crash threw Ly off his bike. Despite emergency responders rushing to the scene and swiftly transporting him to the hospital, Austin was pronounced dead upon arrival.
The driver of the vehicle involved is cooperating with the investigation, which remains ongoing. The police are currently examining several factors, including speed, road conditions, and the functioning of traffic signals, to determine the exact cause of the crash.
Community Response and Heartfelt Tributes
Austin Ly was a beloved member of the Clovis East High School community. Known for his kindness, bright personality, and dedication to his studies, his untimely death has deeply affected his peers and teachers. In response to the tragedy, Clovis East High School has provided additional counseling resources to help students and staff cope with the grief.
Magnolias Vang shared her heartbreaking experience on Facebook, recounting the profound impact the accident had on her children, who witnessed the tragic event. "My kids were still in sports practice after school, and this tragic loss happened right in front of them," she wrote. "One of my boy’s coaches tried to do CPR on him, but he couldn’t save him. It was so sad; this boy was only 16 years old."
Debbie Phillips also expressed her sorrow, noting that Austin had briefly spoken to her son during the early days of school. "This boy is in my son’s class. I feel for the family and also for my son," she wrote. "I hope he’s not too affected."
Several other members of the community, like Alyssa Corsaro and Magnolias Vang, exchanged condolences, reflecting on the heartbreaking nature of the accident and the emotional toll it took on their children.
A Legacy Cut Short
Austin Ly’s death is not only a personal tragedy for his family but a devastating loss for the entire Clovis community. His friends, family, and schoolmates remember him for his kindness, sense of humor, and enthusiasm for life. His passing has left a void in the lives of those who knew him.
Funeral arrangements for Austin Ly are currently being finalized, and his family has requested privacy during this challenging time. The family has asked that donations be made to a local charity supporting youth and education, in lieu of flowers, to honor Austin’s memory.
As the investigation continues, the focus remains on supporting the Ly family and the entire community in mourning the loss of this promising young life.
Rest in peace, Austin Ly.