Placerville, CA – A tragic single-vehicle crash near Placerville, California, claimed the lives of Truckee Meadows Fire Protection District Battalion Chief Ryan Rizzuto, 42, and his wife, Danielle Rizzuto, 41, authorities confirmed.
The accident occurred on Dec. 7, 2025, on Highway 50 in Kyburz, a small town between South Lake Tahoe and Placerville, approximately 90 miles from Reno, Nevada.
Children Survive with Serious Injuries
The couple’s 11-year-old daughter and 8-year-old son were in the backseat of the Chevrolet pickup and survived, though they sustained serious injuries. Both children were transported to Renown Regional Medical Center in Reno for treatment.
Emergency responders reported that it took hours to extricate the children from the severely damaged vehicle. On Wednesday afternoon, a procession of emergency vehicles escorted the Rizzutos’ bodies from El Dorado County past Renown to a Reno mortuary, where their children continue to receive care.
Community Reacts and Offers Support
The crash has had a profound impact on the local Reno community, including the Washoe County School District, which serves the Rizzuto children. Depaoli Middle School Principal Kendra Carsen sent a note to families expressing grief over the incident and highlighting the availability of counselors and support services for students, families, and staff affected by the tragedy.
“Our entire TMFPD family is grieving this unexpected loss,” the Truckee Meadows Fire Protection District said in a statement on Dec. 8, 2025. “Our thoughts are with the family, friends, and colleagues of Chief Rizzuto. We ask the community to please keep them in your hearts and prayers.”
Possible Cause Under Investigation
The California Highway Patrol reported that speed may have been a factor in the crash, though the exact cause remains under investigation. The extent of the damage to the vehicle contributed to the difficulty of rescuing the children and underscores the severity of the collision.
Authorities are continuing to analyze the crash site and gather information to determine the full circumstances surrounding the accident.
Remembering Chief Rizzuto and His Family
Ryan Rizzuto had been promoted to Battalion Chief in January 2021, a milestone he shared on social media, reflecting on his hard work and dedication to the department. He also frequently shared his love for his family, including posts celebrating anniversaries with his wife Danielle Rizzuto.
In a Facebook post dated Oct. 1, 2021, Rizzuto celebrated 10 years of marriage, describing Danielle as a “wonderful wife and mother” to their two children, referring to them affectionately as “our 2 monsters.” The post highlighted the couple’s close family bond and shared adventures together.
The loss of Ryan and Danielle Rizzuto has left the community and fire department colleagues mourning, while the survival of their children offers a small measure of hope amidst the tragedy.
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