A man has been sentenced for his role in a tragic crash that led to the deaths of a longtime married couple in Atwater, California. King Vanga, who was 20 years old at the time of the incident, struck the Juarez couple’s vehicle in June 2021 while driving at dangerously high speeds.
Details of the Fatal Crash
The crash occurred on June 25, 2021, as Vanga was reportedly traveling between 130 and 150 mph. The couple, Pam and Joe Juarez, were just minutes away from their son’s home when the accident took place. The Juarez family had been advocating for justice since the devastating incident.
Impact on the Family
- Pam and Joe Juarez had been married for 38 years.
- They were looking forward to welcoming their grandson, who is now four years old.
- The couple’s children expressed profound grief over their sudden loss.
Gabriela Juarez, the couple’s daughter, shared the long struggle for justice, stating, “We finally got a little bit of justice and closure today.” Her brother, Javier Juarez, spoke emotionally about the pain of losing his parents unexpectedly without a chance to say goodbye.
Sentencing Details
In a Merced County courtroom, Vanga appeared before the judge to address his actions. He expressed remorse, saying, “I am truly very, very sorry for my driving that night.” However, the judge noted that Vanga’s actions following the crash raised concerns about his acceptance of responsibility.
Legal Consequences
The judge, Brian McCabe, highlighted Vanga’s lawsuit against the Juarez family, asserting that it reflected a lack of accountability. Ultimately, Vanga was sentenced to 5 years and 4 months in prison for his reckless actions.
Family’s Pursuit for Justice Continues
Despite the sentencing, the Juarez family remains vigilant as Vanga is reportedly pursuing a civil suit against them for statements made after the incident. They are relieved to have reached a conclusion in this long-standing case but continue to seek justice for their beloved parents.
