Tragic Thanksgiving: San Jose Teen’s Fatal Car Crash Sparks Parental Warning!
A family in San Jose is mourning the devastating loss of their 15-year-old son, Isaiah Mata, who was tragically killed in a car crash early Thanksgiving morning. The Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office reported that the accident occurred after a police chase ended with the car colliding with a tree. Isaiah was one of four teenagers in the vehicle, and he was the only one who didn’t survive.
The driver, also a teen, has been arrested and is facing several charges, including vehicular manslaughter and possession of a stolen vehicle. He was booked into Juvenile Hall. Authorities also recovered an unloaded firearm magazine near the crash site.
Isaiah’s parents, Josephina Acevedo and Giovanni Ruiz shared their heartbreak and gave a powerful message to other parents. “As soon as I heard my dad screaming and moaning, he opened the door and told me that my son was gone. He passed. That’s how we found out,” said Acevedo.
Isaiah was a student at Prospect High School in San Jose and lived with extended family while his parents worked in Modesto. They had gathered in San Jose to celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday. On Wednesday night, they allowed Isaiah to attend a party, expecting him to return home safely.
“He never made it back,” Ruiz said. “We tried calling him, but we couldn’t reach him. I don’t know what happened. We went to sleep early.”
According to deputies, the crash occurred after officers attempted to stop a white Hyundai Elantra near De Anza and Stevens Creek Boulevards. The car sped off, leading to a pursuit that ended tragically near Saratoga Los Gatos Road and Via Colina.
Isaiah’s mother described the devastating moment when they were informed of the crash. She also shared an urgent plea to parents, urging them to stay involved in their teenagers’ lives and prioritize their safety.
“I don’t care if they’re a good kid or a bad kid, be in their business,” Acevedo said. “Check their phones. Make sure they’re safe at all times. Teach them that nothing good comes out of being away from home late, at all, because the kids don’t think.”
The other three passengers in the car, including two girls, were not seriously injured. However, the incident has left Isaiah’s family shattered. They have set up a GoFundMe to help with funeral expenses and to honor Isaiah’s memory.
This tragedy serves as a heartbreaking reminder for families to stay vigilant and make tough decisions to protect their loved ones. Isaiah’s parents hope their loss can inspire other parents to take preventive actions and keep their teens safe.
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