Caltrans crews make deadly Kings County intersection four-way stop before it becomes roundabout

KINGS COUNTY (KFSN) -- More than a few Caltrans crews were near Corcoran Monday, working quickly and efficiently to get a job done. But it wasn't just any normal job-- they know that not only is the intersection of Highway 43 and Whitley Avenue a dangerous intersection, but also a deadly one.

"The last thing I remember is the hit," Padilla said. "All I have in my ear is the sound of the truck hitting the car."

Two months ago, we spoke with Adriana Padilla who was still in mourning over the loss of her five-year-old son. The month before, she, Luis, and Luis' sister were driving home when they crossed the intersection and were hit by a big rig. Luis later died at the hospital.

Two days later, another accident happened at the intersection. During a town hall meeting, the local community called for a temporary four-way stop.

Monday, that's what they got.

"This is what people cared about, so (I'm) glad to see this being delivered," said Kings County Supervisor Richard Valle.

Valle hopes this will help until Caltrans starts building a roundabout at the location in late September. A Caltrans official said they will also have changeable message signs up temporarily, with text that warns drivers to stop ahead.

"This way at least, all traffic is stopped and hopefully will make things safer," Valle said.

When the roundabout is completed, Valle said there will be a plaque to honor Luis, a little boy whose organs were donated because he told his mom he wanted to be a hero.

Cars will eventually flow in a circle. But for now, cross traffic will come to a stop, with the idea that a life like Luis' might be saved.