Southern California(Thechieftainspear) – A Southern California teenager is sharing her grief and urging awareness after a tragic DUI crash on the 60 Freeway claimed the lives of her mother, aunt, and baby nephew.
A Heartbreaking Loss
17-year-old Itzel Moreno is struggling to cope with the devastating loss of her loved ones but remains determined to raise awareness about the dangers of drunk driving.
“We want people to understand the consequences of drinking and driving,” Itzel said. “And we’re also trying to gather funds for the funerals because we lost three family members at once—it’s overwhelming.”
The victims were identified as Rachel Moreno, Jazmine Ramos, and 1-year-old Ezra, who were killed instantly in the collision on the night of March 22.
Details of the Fatal Collision
According to California Highway Patrol (CHP), the crash happened around 11 p.m. on the westbound 60 Freeway near Reservoir Street in Pomona.
A wrong-way driver, identified as 24-year-old Rick Rodriguez, was traveling eastbound in the westbound lanes when he crashed head-on into the victims’ Honda Civic. Another vehicle was also struck in the impact.
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The crash was so severe that all three passengers in the Civic died at the scene, leaving the vehicle unrecognizable. Rodriguez was taken to the hospital, where he died the following day.
Remembering the Victims
For Itzel and her family, the pain is unimaginable.
“They were so full of love,” she said. “I never thought something like this would happen to them.”
Now, their Huntington Park family is facing the difficult task of arranging funerals for three loved ones.
Itzel hopes the tragedy serves as a reminder to cherish family while there’s still time.
“Please, hug your loved ones, tell them you love them,” she urged. “You never know when it could be the last time you see them.”
Fundraising Efforts
The family has launched two GoFundMe campaigns to help cover funeral expenses and is also organizing a car wash fundraiser to support their efforts .
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