Noah Reyes,Adrian Reyes Obituary, Death; – Another family is grieving after the tragic loss of two of their members in a weekend accident.
According to the California Highway Patrol, a suspected intoxicated driver, 20-year-old Melissa Rosales, crashed head-on into another vehicle just south of Turner Avenue on State Route 165.
“This is yet another senseless DUI incident, resulting in the loss of a 20-year-old’s life. It appears she was leaving a location where she had been drinking and should not have been driving. Unfortunately, this has led to a family mourning the deaths of two individuals,” stated Officer Eric Zuniga from the California Highway Patrol in Merced.
The victims have been identified as 13-year-old Noah Reyes and his father, 40-year-old Adrian Reyes. Family members shared with Action News that Adrian was a devoted father who always went above and beyond for his children. He will be remembered as a diligent worker and a loving husband and father.
They also described Noah as a kind-hearted boy who enjoyed playing basketball with friends, loved his dogs, cherished trips to the beach, and listened to music by the late Tupac Shakur.
Officer Zuniga expressed his frustration over the recurrence of such tragic incidents. “This is the second consecutive weekend we’ve experienced a situation like this, and we need to put an end to it,” he remarked.
Just the previous weekend, the CHP reported that 28-year-old Abraham Bustos Guzman lost his life on Highway 99 near Atwater while attempting to assist a stranger in need. He had pulled over to help a distressed driver when he was struck by an alleged drunk driver.
“Today, there are numerous alternatives available, such as rideshare services and taxis. I’m confident that if you reach out to someone, they will come to pick you up, so there is no justification for this behavior,” Officer Zuniga emphasized. Law enforcement continues to stress the importance of having a plan when going out.
“The key message is simple: do not drink and drive,” Officer Zuniga advised. The CHP reported that the suspect involved in this weekend’s crash was taken to the hospital with serious injuries. Once she is discharged, she will face charges of Felony DUI and vehicular manslaughter.
