Tragic Crash Claims the Life of Lyft Driver in Salinas, California

SALINAS, Calif. (KION-TV)- The family of a Lyft driver who tragically lost his life in a devastating crash on the intersection of North Sanborn Rd and Freedom Parkway in Salinas, is still reeling from the events that unfolded on Sunday night.

Jorge Vazquez, the son of the victim, recounts the horrifying moment when he discovered that the accident was right next to his residence. He recalls, “There was a car accident right next to my house, right next to the apartments where I live. I was all like, ‘damn, who’s that?’ So, I take a detour and I realized that was my dad.”

Jorge Vazquez and his brother were driving through Salinas last Sunday night, never expecting that they would witness the untimely death of their beloved father.

In a state of disbelief, Vazquez shares, “The officer straight up just told me he didn’t make it, and I couldn’t believe it. I couldn’t believe my dad was gone.”

The victim, identified as Jorge Vazquez Topete, was an experienced Lyft and Uber driver who was providing a ride on the night of the Super Bowl.

According to Jorge, a witness observed the entire crash unfold. “She said that my dad was following the rules, that it was green when he was passing through. It was actually a speeding driver who ran a red light and collided with my dad,” Vazquez explains.

Salinas Police reported that the suspect, 27-year-old Juan Manuel Gonzalez, fled the scene after the collision. However, Gonzalez was apprehended the following morning and now faces charges of vehicular manslaughter and felony hit and run.

Uber, the ride-sharing company for which Vazquez Topete also worked, expressed their condolences in a statement provided to KION. “Our hearts go out to the victim’s family during this incredibly tragic time. We’re continuing to investigate the incident and are fully cooperating with the police,” stated an Uber spokesperson.

Still grappling with the shock and grief, Jorge Vazquez admits that he feels trapped in a nightmare and struggles to comprehend the magnitude of the loss. He fondly remembers his father’s unwavering support for his aspirations, saying, “He would always back me up, no matter how crazy my ideas were.”

Jorge Vazquez Topete leaves behind two children and his wife. The family is now preparing to face the heartbreaking reality that Vazquez Topete’s 54th birthday, which would have been celebrated in April, will never come to pass.