PETALUMA, Calif.— A young boy was struck and killed by a tractor in a field on private property on April 6, authorities said.
The accident happened at about 12:35 p.m. on Skillman Lane, northwest of downtown Petaluma. Investigators said the boy ran into the field, where a tractor operated by a man struck him.
Officials identified the victim as Ian De Jesus, a 3-year-old Petaluma resident. Emergency responders pronounced him dead at the scene.
The tractor’s driver, a 64-year-old Rohnert Park resident, was arrested on suspicion of manslaughter and felony DUI.
The Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office and California Highway Patrol continue to investigate.
Ian De Jesus tragically killed in Petaluma tractor accident
April 08, 2025
Incident Location
CRASH INVESTIGATION
“It is imperative to come to a determination of the exact cause of these types of accidents. An attorney has the resources to review applicable insurance coverage, hire expert witnesses, run background checks, and locate witnesses. We carefully guide the family of the victim through the process,” said Candice Bond, a managing partner with Bond Legal.
She noted that, in cases such as this, an independent investigation is crucial to preserve evidence.
“In addition to a police report, an attorney will carefully review what may have contributed to the crash,” said Bond. “A lawyer has the resources to hire expert witnesses, conduct drivers’ background checks, locate witnesses to the crash and review applicable insurance coverage. Serving as an advocate, an attorney can help guide an injury victim through what can be a complicated process.”
WRONGFUL DEATH CLAIM
Pending the investigation, the family of the boy could pursue a wrongful death claim. Relatives of wrongful death victims are entitled to seek damages for the loss of companionship, pain and suffering, and emotional distress following a tragic or catastrophic accident.
“The stress and sorrow can be extremely overwhelming after losing a loved one in an accident,” said Bond.
“We understand the hardships that families face, and it’s crucial to protect their rights. A wrongful death lawyer will keep abreast of the official investigation and ensure that their legal rights and best interests are safeguarded.”
Accident Injury News' national legal analyst Candice Bond is experienced in fatal pedestrian accidents, and if you or a family member need help, she is available for a free consultation to guide you.
(Candice Bond, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Bond Legal. Accident Injury News can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-986-7738 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).
