Suspect in deadly Reedley hit-and-run turns himself in, family seeks healing and justice

FRESNO COUNTY, Calif. (KFSN) -- The man Reedley police believe was involved in a hit-and-run crash that killed an elderly couple is now in custody after turning himself in, authorities announced Friday.

On Wednesday, police identified the suspect as 48-year-old Omar Lopez Chavez. According to investigators, Chavez called authorities from Mexico and agreed to surrender at a border crossing.

The arrest comes days after 75-year-old Luis Martinez Araujo and his fiancée, 78-year-old Maria Juarez Mendez, were struck and killed while crossing Manning Avenue at Haney Avenue in Reedley.

Family members of Araujo said they are grateful Chavez decided to turn himself in, but said the arrest does not lessen their loss.

"It's not just one person who was affected here," said Robert Gutierrez, Araujo's oldest son. "It's a waterslide of people that are going to be affected by these actions."

Police said the crash happened early Tuesday morning when a white Chevy van struck the couple as they crossed the street. Investigators said the driver fled the scene but later identified Chavez through surveillance video.

The couple was taken to a hospital, where they later died from their injuries.

A growing memorial now stands at the crash site as relatives continue to mourn.

"He could've stopped somewhere, called and said 'I think I just hurt somebody, please send someone. I'm in desperate need to get where I need to go. Would that have changed things? No. But it would have shown kindness and responsibility that he cared," said Gloria Garcia, Araujo's sister.

Family members reflected on the grief left behind by the impact of the crash.

"Life is short. At any given time, we can all be taken. We have to come together and be strong," Gutierrez said.

Garcia said she experienced mixed emotions upon learning of the arrest.

"I still hurt. I had mixed emotions, happiness and sadness. I was worried that because he's a runaway he could've hurt somebody else," she said.

For the family, the arrest represents a step toward accountability and closure.

"We believe in the justice system. We believe in prayer. We believe that this is going to be a healing process for us," Gutierrez said.

Still, relatives said the arrest cannot undo the pain caused by the deaths of Araujo and Mendez.

Addressing Chavez directly, Garcia shared this message.

"Sir, just know that God will take care of things. I'm not cursing you, I'm not doing anything. I truly believe that God will always be with you. Don't forget, at your darkest times sir, God is right there with you," she said.

Family members described Araujo as a loving man who came to the United States to pursue the American dream and said he will be deeply missed. A GoFundMe has been established to help cover funeral expenses.

Chavez is currently booked into the San Diego County Jail on multiple charges. Police said the case is expected to be filed with the Fresno County District Attorney's Office next week.

Reedley police are continuing to ask anyone with information about the crash to contact the department.

The family of Luis Martinez has set up a GoFundMe for anyone looking to help with funeral expenses.

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