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El Cajon Man, Jim Frazee, Killed in Suspected Drunk Driving Hit-and-Run

car accident

A suspected drunk driver is in custody following a fatal hit-and-run that claimed the life of 50-year-old Jim Frazee in El Cajon. The crash happened late on the night of August 17, near the intersection of Chase and Avocado Avenues. 

According to the El Cajon Police Department, officers were dispatched around 1 am after reports of a collision involving a vehicle, a fire hydrant, and a power pole. Witnesses also reported that a man pushing a shopping cart had been struck and appeared deceased. Paramedics later confirmed Frazee died at the scene. 

Investigators determined that an SUV involved in the crash fled before police arrived. Using automated license plate readers, authorities identified the vehicle, which was later located with heavy damage and with deployed airbags. Officers contacted the suspected driver at a nearby residence, where he allegedly showed signs of intoxication. He was arrested. 

If you have lost a loved one in a collision caused by a suspected drunk or reckless driver, the attorneys at Singleton Schreiber are here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation. 

The Dangers of Drunk Driving and Hit-and-Run Collisions

Drunk driving remains one of the deadliest preventable causes of traffic fatalities. Alcohol impairs judgement, slows reaction times, and reduces coordination, making it far more likely that a driver will lose control of their vehicle. In this case, the driver allegedly struck and killed Jim Frazee after hitting a fire hydrant and utility pole, showing the extreme risk that impaired driving poses to pedestrians and property alike. 

Hit-and-run accidents make these situations even more dangerous. Fleeing the scene delays critical medical attention for victims and complicates investigations, leaving families without answers. Pedestrians, like Mr. Frazee, are especially vulnerable, as they have no protection against vehicles that weigh significantly more than they do. 

“Losing a loved one because someone chose to drive drunk, and then flee the scene, is devastating and entirely preventable,” says Gerald Singleton, managing partner of Singleton Schreiber. “While criminal charges address the driver’s conduct, civil claims give families an opportunity to pursue accountability and compensation for the losses they have suffered. Legal recourse can provide both financial support and a sense of justice for those left behind.” 

Legal Recourse for Families After a Hit-and-Run

Families who lose a loved one in a suspected drunk driving collision may be able to pursue a wrongful death claim. These claims allow families to seek compensation for a variety of losses, including: 

  • Funeral and burial expenses
  • Medical bills
  • Loss of companionship and emotional support
  • Mental anguish and emotional suffering
  • Financial support that the victim would have provided
  • Pain and suffering endured by the victim prior to death

While the state may pursue criminal charges, civil claims allow grieving families to pursue financial accountability and justice on their own. Wrongful death claims can help families not only cover immediate financial burdens but also secure long-term support and a sense of closure during a profoundly difficult time.

If you have lost someone you love in a drunk driving crash, contact Singleton Schreiber today to speak with an experienced wrongful death attorney who can guide you through your legal options.

Two Hospitalized After Serious Collision Between 18-Wheeler and Tow Truck in Jackson County

Two Hospitalized After Serious Collision

On Sunday morning, emergency crews responded to a severe collision on Highway 63 in Jackson County, Mississippi. The wreck occurred around 10:00 am and involved an 18-wheeler and a flatbed tow truck. Firefighters reported that both the driver and passenger of the tow truck had to be extricated from the vehicle. The driver was airlifted to a nearby hospital for emergency treatment, while the passenger was transported by ambulance. Their current conditions have not yet been released. 

The Mississippi Highway Patrol is leading the investigation into the cause of the crash. Traffic along Highway 63 was backed up for several hours but has since been cleared. Multiple agencies, including the Jackson County Sheriff’s Department, Acadian Ambulance, and the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality, assisted at the scene. 

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, the attorneys at Singleton Schreiber are here to help you understand your rights and pursue justice. Contact us today for a free consultation. 

The Dangers of Collisions Between Large Trucks

When two commercial vehicles collide, such as an 18-wheeler and a tow truck, the force of impact is far greater than in most other types of crashes. The combined weight of these trucks can exceed 50,000 pounds, meaning that even a relatively low-speed collision can cause severe injuries and significant property damage. These types of accidents often block roadways for hours, put first responders at risk during rescue efforts, and create dangerous conditions for other drivers in the area. 

Several factors can contribute to truck-on-truck crashes, including:

  • Driver fatigue from long hours on the road
  • Mechanical failures, such as brake or tire issues
  • Distracted or impaired driving
  • Improper lane changes or following too closely 
  • Hazardous road or weather conditions

“Collisions between two large trucks create some of the most hazardous crash scenes we see,” says Wes Fulgham of Singleton Schreiber. “The size and weight of these vehicles amplify the damage, often leaving drivers and passengers with serious injuries. This Jackson County crash highlights the importance of strict adherence to safety regulations and careful investigation into what went wrong.”

Legal Options for Those Injured in Truck Accidents

Victims of serious truck accidents may be entitled to pursue compensation for their injuries and losses. Depending on the circumstances, several parties could potentially be held responsible, including the truck drivers, their employers, or even third parties responsible for vehicle maintenance or cargo loading. 

Injured individuals may be able to seek compensation for:

  • Medical costs and future treatment costs
  • Lost income and reduced earning capacity
  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress and mental anguish
  • Property damage

Determining liability in truck accidents is complex, but victims do not have to navigate the process alone. If you or a loved one has been harmed in a truck collision, contact Singleton Schreiber today to speak with a skilled truck accident attorney. We are committed to helping victims and their families get justice. 

6 lives lost at Colorado Dairy, Authorities Suspect Gas Exposure

factory

On August 20, 2025, a heartbreaking accident struck the Prospect Valley Dairy in Keenesburg, Colorado. Emergency responders rushed to the farm after a distress call reported missing individuals in a “confined space.”

Upon arrival, firefighters entered the hazardous area and found six people dead, including a local high school student. Initial investigations suggest that the fatalities were caused by lethal gas exposure while working within a confined space, though authorities are awaiting results from autopsies and toxicology tests to confirm the exact cause of death. Three other individuals were hospitalized and have since been released. The names of the deceased, reportedly all Hispanic males, have not been disclosed as of this writing.

Official statements by local fire and sheriff’s departments indicate that there is no evidence of foul play, and the tragedy is currently being treated as an accident. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has opened an investigation, which may take several months to complete.

Why Families Should Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer at Singleton Schreiber after a Wrongful Death

When a loved one dies under tragic and ambiguous circumstances at work, family members face not only emotional devastation but also significant legal complexities. “The loss of six lives is heartbreaking beyond words. Families should never have to fear that their loved ones won’t come home after work,” said Kevin Hannon, partner at Singleton Schreiber, Denver. “Our role as lawyers is to stand with these families and ensure they receive answers surrounding this tragedy.”

In situations like the Colorado dairy accident, contacting a qualified personal injury lawyer immediately can make all the difference. Here’s why:

  • Protecting Your Rights: Insurance companies will often seem compassionate in the aftermath of a tragedy but are primarily focused on minimizing payouts. Legal representatives ensure that the interests of the deceased’s family are given priority, not pushed aside by corporate or insurance adjusters.
  • Establishing Liability: Although criminal wrongdoing hasn’t been alleged in this case, negligence or regulatory failures by the employer or third parties may still have played a role. Specialized wrongful death attorneys have the expertise to navigate OSHA regulations, investigate workplace practices, and connect families with necessary resources for independent investigations.
  • Maximizing Compensation: Holding responsible parties accountable and securing just compensation for loss of companionship, future earnings, pain and suffering, and funeral expenses. Experienced lawyers know what evidence is needed and how to negotiate settlements or take a case to trial if needed.

Contact Singleton Schreiber Today

If you’ve lost a loved one in a workplace accident, don’t wait to seek legal advice. Consult with a wrongful death and personal injury lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights and ensure you don’t lose the opportunity to recover damages to which your family is entitled.

For a free, confidential consultation, reach out to Singleton Schreiber and take the first step toward justice and healing.

State Probe Launched After Decaying Bodies Found at Pueblo County Coroner’s Mortuary

urn

During an inspection on August 20, 2025, state regulators uncovered a disturbing scene at Davis Mortuary in Pueblo, Colorado, operated by county coroner Brian Cotter. Behind a door hidden by a cardboard display, inspectors found about 20 decomposing bodies, some stored there for over 15 years. Cotter admitted he may have given families fake cremains instead of their loved ones’ ashes.

The discovery came during the mortuary’s first inspection under new state oversight laws. Authorities immediately suspended the facility’s license and launched a wide-ranging criminal investigation. Families are now waiting for answers, identification of remains, and accountability.

What Is Funeral Negligence?

Funeral homes are entrusted with one of the most solemn responsibilities, treating the deceased with dignity and respecting grieving families. The alleged failures at Davis Mortuary, which include concealing bodies, failing to embalm or cremate within legal timeframes, and possibly substituting ashes may all represent signs of funeral negligence.

Funeral home inspections are important in exposing abuses like this one. Such misconduct isn’t just careless, it’s a betrayal of the sacred trust families place in funeral providers.

Why Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer

By law, funeral directors and coroners must handle remains properly, whether by embalming, refrigeration, cremation, or burial. Failure to do so can amount to civil negligence, fraud, or intentional infliction of emotional distress, and may also lead to criminal charges.

Families have a right to know that their loved ones are being cared for respectfully. When that trust is broken, legal action may be the only way to obtain accountability and ensure such violations are not repeated.

Kevin Hannon, partner at Singleton Schreiber – Denver, said “Families trusted this mortuary with their loved ones’ final dignity. When that trust is broken, the pain is immeasurable. A lawyer can help families seek justice, closure, and the respect they deserve.”

Contact Singleton Schreiber Today

Speaking with a personal injury attorney at Singleton Schreiber is critical for families affected by funeral misconduct. Attorneys can:

  • Investigate whether remains were mishandled or substituted.
  • Preserve evidence and document the harm to families.
  • Pursue claims for emotional and financial damages.
  • Advocate for stronger regulations to protect others.

If you were affected by the funeral negligence in Pueblo County, you do not have to go through this alone. Contact Singleton Schreiber today to learn how we can help you seek the justice you deserve.

 

San Rafael Apartment Fire Leaves 8 Injured, 2 Missing, and Many Displaced

apartment fire

A devastating fire tore through an apartment building on Canal Street in San Rafael early Thursday morning, leaving eight people injured, two still unaccounted for, and at least 58 residents displaced. The blaze broke out just after 5:30 am near Highway 101 and San Rafael Creek, forcing some residents to jump into the canal to escape the flames. 

Among the injured, one person suffered serious but non-life-threatening injuries after leaping into the water. Two others were hospitalized with non-serious injuries, while several others were treated at the scene. Apartment buildings on either side were evacuated as crews battled the flames from both land and water, with the San Rafael Fire Boat assisting from the canal. 

Witnesses reported hearing explosions and popping noises as the fire spread. Officials explained that sounds like this often occur when electrical lines fail. 

While everyone is now accounted for, the Red Cross is assisting the dozens of displaced residents as officials continue their investigation into what sparked the fire. 

If you or a loved one was affected by this fire, Call Singleton Schreiber today to discuss your legal options and get the support you deserve. 

The Dangers of Apartment Fires

Apartment fires are particularly devastating because of how quickly they can spread and how many people they impact at once. In this case, some residents were forced to jump into a nearby canal just to escape. Tragically, this is not uncommon in multi-unit structures where exits may become blocked or smoke spreads rapidly. 

Several residents reported hearing popping noises, which fire officials say are likely linked to the failure of electrical lines. Electrical malfunctions, including power line failures, are a common cause of apartment fires. However, they are not the only possible source. Fires like this can also be caused by:

  • Faulty wiring or overloaded circuits
  • Kitchen or cooking accidents
  • Space heaters or malfunctioning appliances
  • Smoking or unattended candles
  • Arson or intentional acts

The exact cause of the San Rafael fire remains under investigation, but the incident highlights the importance of strong fire safety systems in apartment buildings.

Legal Options for Victims of Apartment Fires

For the dozens of families now without a home, and for those who suffered injuries, the road to recovery will be long. Victims of apartment fires may have the right to pursue legal claims to help cover:

  • Medical expenses for injuries, including hospital stays and ongoing treatment
  • Property damage and loss of personal belongings
  • Temporary housing costs while displaced
  • Pain and suffering from physical and emotional trauma

Chris Rodriguez, attorney at Singleton Schreiber, noted, “An apartment fire of this scale leaves entire families without homes and forces survivors to make split-second decisions just to stay alive. While the cause is still under investigation, the impact on this community is clear: people have lost more than just their belongings– they’ve lost their sense of safety.” 

If you were displaced, injured, or otherwise affected by the San Rafael apartment fire, you do not have to go through this alone. Contact Singleton Schreiber today to learn how we can help protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. 

California Mother Adela Magaña Loses Arm After Palm Tree Collapse at Ventura Mini Golf Course

fallen tree

A family’s birthday celebration turned into a life-altering tragedy when a 40-foot palm tree fell on 53-year-old Adela Magaña at the Golf N’ Stuff amusement park in Ventura, California.

On August 6, Adela was seated on a bench watching her husband and children play their third hole when witnesses heard a “screeching sound” followed by a “big thump.” The tree came crashing down, trapping her underneath. Her husband, adult son, and two Good Samaritans lifted the tree off her, only to find her arm severely crushed and bleeding heavily. A tourniquet was applied before paramedics rushed her to Ventura County Medical Center.

Despite emergency surgery, the damage to her nerves and blood vessels was too severe, and her arm was amputated just below the shoulder the following day. She now faces additional surgeries, extensive rehabilitation, and the lifelong challenge of adapting to a prosthetic.

The emotional impact on her family has been profound – especially for her 13-year-old son, who witnessed the accident. The Magaña family says they had visited the mini golf course many times before, making the day’s events all the more shocking.

Golf N’ Stuff has not publicly commented on how or why the tree fell. Questions remain about the safety of the property and whether proper maintenance could have prevented the accident.

Liability in Tree-Fall Incidents

When a tree or large branch falls and causes injury, liability often depends on whether the property owner or manager knew – or should have known – about the hazard and failed to address it. In California, businesses and property owners have a legal duty to maintain their premises in a reasonably safe condition, which includes inspecting and maintaining trees that could pose a risk to guests. 

Potentially liable parties in a tree-fall case may include:

  • The property owner for failing to inspect, maintain, or remove dangerous trees.
  • A property management company that was responsible for upkeep and safety inspections.
  • A landscaping or tree maintenance contractor, in cases where negligent work or missed warning signs contributed to the incident.
  • Municipal or governmental entities in situations where the tree was on public land but within the area of the incident.

Adela Magaña and Her Family Have Legal Options | Singleton Schreiber Can Help

According to Brett Schreiber of Singleton Schreiber, these cases come down to proving negligence. “When a tree falls and seriously injures someone, the results are devastating.  If the property owner or management company was negligent, such as ignoring visible signs of structural instability, disease, or decay, the injured party – in this case, Adela Magaña – may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and long-term care needs.”

“These cases can be extremely complex,” he went on to say, “but we understand how to find the liable parties and hold them accountable.  Mrs. Magaña was injured through no fault of her own, and she deserves justice.  We can help.”

Singleton Schreiber has a demonstrated history of fighting for people injured by falling trees.  The firm has recently recovered $16.4 million for a client who was struck by a large tree branch that fell from a tree on a Department of Transportation-owned and maintained roadway.  

Adela Magaña may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more as a result of an incident that should never have happened in the first place.  While a lawsuit cannot undo the harm she suffered, it can hold the responsible party accountable for the unsafe condition, mitigate the financial impact it has on her life, and potentially prevent a similar incident from happening to someone else. 

If anyone in the Magaña family is interested in learning more about the legal options surrounding this tragic situation, please call Singleton Schreiber for a free consultation today.