Richmond, California – A tragic DUI crash has resulted in the death of a 16-year-old teenager in Richmond, California. The incident occurred last week, when 30-year-old Alexi Alexander Pineda Ticas faced murder charges after causing a fatal collision.
The teenager, identified as Ricardo Funes-Barajas, also known as Ricky to his friends and family, lost his life during the crash outside his family’s home. The collision occurred when Funes-Barajas was leaving his residence as Pineda Ticas, allegedly driving at excessive speeds, failed to stop at a sign and crashed into the teenager. Funes-Barajas succumbed to his injuries shortly after the incident.
District Attorney Diana Becton expressed the devastation caused by the tragic incident, emphasizing the need for accountability and justice for the reckless actions that resulted in the loss of a young life.
Pineda Ticas is facing a three-count felony complaint, including charges for vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence, driving under the influence of alcohol causing injury, and driving with a high blood-alcohol content causing injury, all with enhancements alleging great bodily injury.
The victim’s family described Funes-Barajas as a loving and intelligent individual who played basketball for Leadership High School, adding that he had just left home after watching a soccer match. To help with funeral expenses, the family set up an online fundraiser.
Pineda Ticas was arraigned and is currently in custody at the Martinez Detention Facility with bail set at $1.1 million. The incident serves as a tragic reminder of the dangers of driving under the influence, highlighting the devastating impact such actions can have on families and communities.