Salinas, CA – A 19-year-old man, identified as Ricardo Archundia Cruz, will spend nearly two decades behind bars after admitting to causing a crash that killed a 3-year-old boy and left the child’s father critically injured.
Cruz pleaded guilty on Wednesday to gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, with an enhancement for fleeing the scene, in the death of Fermin Maldonado. He also admitted to felony assault with a deadly weapon and inflicting great bodily injury for the severe injuries sustained by the victim’s father, Regino Vivar.
Crash Details
According to the Monterey County District Attorney’s Office, the fatal crash occurred around 6:20 p.m. on July 26, 2024, at the intersection of East Alisal Street and Wood Street in Salinas.
Authorities said Cruz was traveling at 50 mph in a 25 mph zone with an open beer can in his vehicle. He admitted to being under the influence of alcohol at the time.
Despite being nearly 1,000 feet away when the light turned yellow, Cruz did not slow down. He ran the red light and struck Regino and his son Fermin, who were lawfully crossing the street in the crosswalk after the “walk” signal appeared.
The Tragic Outcome
Prosecutors said Regino attempted to pull his son back upon seeing the car speed through the intersection, but both were struck. Regino was thrown 60 feet, suffering severe injuries but surviving.
Fermin, however, was trapped under Cruz’s car and dragged more than 600 feet before his body was expelled from beneath the vehicle. The toddler died instantly.
At the time of the crash, Fermin’s mother was seven months pregnant, according to local news outlet KSBW.
Flight and Arrest
After the collision, Cruz fled the scene at high speed, continuing to drive recklessly. He later traveled south to San Diego and attempted to cross into Mexico.
Officers with the Salinas Police Department intervened and persuaded Cruz to return to the United States and surrender. He was formally arrested on August 4, 2024.
Upcoming Sentencing
Cruz is scheduled to appear before Monterey County Superior Court Judge Pamela L. Butler on October 22, 2025. Prosecutors said he will receive a stipulated sentence of 17 years in state prison.
The Broader Impact of Drunk Driving
Authorities emphasized that the tragedy underscores the devastating consequences of drunk and reckless driving. Speeding, ignoring traffic signals, and driving under the influence continue to take innocent lives across California and the U.S.
Public safety advocates urge drivers to:
- Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Obey speed limits, especially in residential and school areas.
- Be alert at intersections, where pedestrians are most vulnerable.
Conclusion
The community of Salinas continues to mourn the loss of 3-year-old Fermin Maldonado. His death serves as a painful reminder of the importance of responsible driving and the irreversible harm caused by reckless choices.
How do you think communities can better prevent tragedies caused by drunk driving? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
