Traffic Tragedies Leave San Antonio Grieving

News Summary

San Antonio is mourning after two tragic traffic incidents involving intoxicated drivers. The incidents resulted in the loss of lives, including a mother and another woman, forever altering the lives of their families. Authorities continue to address the dangers of drunk driving.

Traffic Tragedies Leave San Antonio Grieving

San Antonio has recently been rocked by two tragic incidents involving intoxicated drivers, resulting in the loss of precious lives and leaving families shattered.

Mother’s Life Cut Short

The first heart-wrenching event occurred on a Monday morning, just after 6:00 a.m. A horrific crash claimed the life of Crystal Mendoza, a beloved mother who will be dearly missed. Jose Alfredo Nino Lopez, the driver accused of causing this tragedy, has been apprehended and is now facing serious charges including manslaughter, aggravated assault, and injury to a child.

Reports indicate that Lopez was driving recklessly at an alarming speed of 65 miles per hour—30 miles over the legal limit—when he collided with Mendoza’s vehicle. Sadly, Mendoza’s two children, her daughter, and nephew were also involved in the crash but have thankfully been released from the hospital. While recovering from their injuries, their family continues to grapple with this immense loss.

The Mendoza family had been bustling with preparations for a family Quinceañera celebration for Crystal’s niece before this tragedy struck. Such plans now stand in stark contrast to the sorrow they must navigate in the wake of Crystal’s passing. Her sister, Veronica Peres, expressed that although the arrest provides some relief, nothing can bring her sister back. The emotional toll is evident as they face the harsh reality of their situation.

A GoFundMe page has been initiated to help support Mendoza’s children during this incredibly difficult time. Family members have reached out to the community, hoping for donations to assist in the fight ahead.

Another Fatal Incident

Sasha Marie Yeigh lost her life after being struck by a vehicle driven by Juan Rabago. Yeigh’s vehicle had run out of gas, and she was on the roadside when Rabago’s vehicle crossed a solid white line and collided with her.

Authorities found Rabago at the scene where he remained post-accident, but the evaluation suggested he was intoxicated at the time of the incident. He now faces charges for intoxication manslaughter and unlawful carrying of a weapon. Furthermore, Rabago has since been released on a bond set at $75,000 early on Sunday morning, which only adds insult to injury for Yeigh’s loved ones.

Tragedy Extending Beyond the Roads

Jesus David Razo Garcia was killed while attempting to assist after witnessing a wrong-way crash involving another vehicle. This situation portrays the dangers of stepping into a crisis without ensuring personal safety first.

Tina Vitacco, has been vocal about the importance of safety advising everyone to refrain from exiting their vehicles to help during such situations; it’s a critical reminder to prioritize personal safety above all.

The Impact of Drunk Driving

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HERE Resources

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Major Rollover Crash in San Antonio Hospitalizes Two Drivers
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San Antonio Man Turns Himself In After Holiday Crash
Tragic Collision Claims Life of Pedestrian in San Antonio

Additional Resources

• Express News: San Antonio Fatal Crash
• Wikipedia: Traffic Collision
• News 4 San Antonio: Drunk Driver Pleads No Contest
• Google Search: San Antonio Traffic Accidents
• Fox San Antonio: Man Charged in Drunk Driving Crash
• Google Scholar: Drunk Driving Impact
• KSAT News: Intoxication Manslaughter Arrest
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Vehicle Accidents
• KENS5: SAPD Fatal Crash
• Google News: San Antonio Drunk Driving Incidents

Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER

The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.