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A truck crashed into an occupied home in Caruthers early on the morning of Tuesday, June 23rd, killing the driver and the homeowner, who was inside the house.

A truck crashed into an occupied home in Caruthers early on the morning of Tuesday, June 23rd, killing the driver and the homeowner, who was inside the house. The deceased homeowner has been identified as Michelle Willis, 55, the principal’s secretary at the local high school. Caruthers is located 15 miles south of Fresno.

The crash occurred around 2:00 a.m., and soon after authorities were alerted to a fire at the residence. When firefighters arrived, the fire had already spread throughout the home. Authorities believe that the vehicle that crashed into the home began leaking fuel and erupted in flames. Witnesses heard explosions and attempted to help Willis, but were unable to due to the heat of the fire. They stated that the vehicle trapped Willis inside the home, preventing her escape.

Both Willis and the driver of the truck were pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities are investigating the cause of the crash.