A California family is mourning the loss of two beloved parents after a tragic car crash that took place late Friday night in Santa Clarita. The couple was driving home from church with their daughter when a suspected drunk driver crashed into their vehicle, killing them both and leaving their daughter with life-altering injuries.
Parents Killed in Tragic Crash After Church Service
Patty Ortiz and Genry Ortiz were on their way home with their 25-year-old daughter, Erin Ortiz, after spending the evening at their church. At around 11:15 p.m., while driving through the intersection of Newhall Canyon Road and Bouquet Canyon Road in Santa Clarita, their car was struck by another vehicle.
According to local law enforcement, the driver suspected of causing the crash was under the influence. The crash involved three vehicles—the Ortiz family’s vehicle and two others, one of which was reportedly stopped in the intersection at the time.
One Parent Died at the Scene, the Other Later in Hospital
The Santa Clarita Sheriff’s Office confirmed that one parent died at the scene, while the other was rushed to a hospital, where they later succumbed to their injuries. Their daughter Erin survived the crash but was left with serious injuries.
Daughter Hospitalized With Life-Altering Injuries
Erin Ortiz was taken to a hospital with what family and friends described as “severe and life-altering injuries.” Her brother, Eder David Ortiz, told KABC that Erin is in a great deal of pain, with serious injuries to her wrist and other parts of her body.
“Her whole body, she can’t really move,” he said.
“She has a lot of fractures,” he added in a separate interview with KTLA, though he noted she was “doing better” than expected.
A GoFundMe created by family friends states that Erin will require extensive medical care, rehabilitation, and long-term support as she recovers.
Suspected DUI Driver Arrested at the Scene
Police conducted a breath test on the driver suspected of causing the crash, and he was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence. His name has not been released, and authorities are continuing their investigation.
Family Grieves the Loss While Supporting Erin
The surviving son, Eder David Ortiz, is now left to grieve the sudden loss of both his parents while also supporting his injured sister.
“I’m just trying to navigate emotions and make sure my sister’s okay,” he shared with local media.
