Fresno Headlines: Council Race Controversy, Injury Crash, DUI Checkpoint

It has been a busy few days across Fresno, with developments in local politics, public safety, and traffic enforcement drawing attention.

Council Race Draws Statewide Attention

A Fresno City Council District 7 candidate is facing intense scrutiny after officially filing paperwork to run for office. Rene Campos, a registered sex offender who pleaded no contest to a misdemeanor charge related to child sex abuse material in 2018, submitted his candidacy documents ahead of the filing deadline.

While filing does not automatically guarantee a place on the ballot, the move has sparked backlash and prompted renewed debate in Sacramento. A proposed state bill introduced last week would prohibit registered sex offenders from running for or holding local or state office. Under current law, there is no such ban in place.

Three Hospitalized in Central Fresno Crash

On Thursday evening, a four-vehicle collision at Maple Avenue and Tulare Street sent three people to the hospital. Fresno police say the crash happened around 8 p.m., with the force of the impact knocking down at least one traffic light pole.

All three injured individuals were reported in stable condition. Utility crews were called to restore the damaged signal, and the cause of the crash remains under investigation.

DUI Checkpoint Conducted Saturday Night

Fresno police conducted a DUI checkpoint Saturday night from 9 p.m. to 4 a.m. at an undisclosed location. Officials said the operation was part of ongoing efforts to reduce impaired driving, noting that impairment can include alcohol, marijuana, prescription medications, and some over-the-counter drugs.

Authorities emphasized the financial and legal consequences of a first-time DUI conviction, including steep fines and license suspension.

Wind Advisory Impacts Region

A wind advisory issued late last week affected parts of Fresno County, with gusts reaching up to 50 mph in higher elevations. Officials warned of possible downed tree limbs and isolated power outages before conditions eased Saturday night.

Sources

https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/registered-sex-offender-rene-campos-211806677.html
https://www.pacificattorneygroup.com/fresno-ca-3-hospitalized-after-multi-vehicle-collision-at-maple-ave-and-tulare-st/
https://gvwire.com/2026/03/05/fresno-police-to-conduct-dui-checkpoint-saturday-night/
https://govonestop.com/alert/wind-advisory-03062026-0236-california