19-Year-Old Aspiring National Guard Member Killed by Drunk Driver Near Bus Stop Before Birthday
19-Year-Old National Guardsman Killed by Drunk Driver at California Bus Stop
An aspiring member of the National Guard was fatally hit by an alleged drunk driver while waiting for a bus in North Natomas, California, just days before his 20th birthday. The incident occurred at the corner of Del Paso and El Centro roads on a Wednesday afternoon.
Ricky Ray Reyes Jr., 19, was pronounced dead at the scene after the driver jumped the curb and struck him. The driver, whose identity has not been disclosed, was injured in the crash and hospitalized. Authorities have arrested the individual, believed to be under the influence at the time of the collision.
Reyes was a deli worker and a former Junior ROTC cadet who regularly spent weekends at the Army National Guard Base in Sacramento. He had recently completed a trade school program. His family described him as a caring and loving young man, noting his passion for making sandwiches and his dedication to service. A GoFundMe fundraiser in his memory has surpassed $22,000 to support his family.
The tragic incident marks the 97th motor vehicle-related death in Sacramento County this year. Local officials and safety advocates are investigating the crash site to explore potential measures that could prevent similar accidents in the future.
