Santa Clarita, California (February 6, 2026) — A Santa Clarita family is facing an unimaginable loss after Genry Ortiz and Patty Ortiz were killed late Friday night in a suspected DUI crash while traveling home from church with their daughter. Their 25-year-old daughter, Erin Ortiz, survived the collision but remains hospitalized with serious injuries, according to family members and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.
The crash has left a close-knit church community mourning and a young woman facing recovery without the parents who had supported her throughout her life.
Incident Details: According to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, Santa Clarita Division, the collision occurred at approximately 11:15 p.m. at the intersection of Newhall Canyon Road and Bouquet Canyon Road. Investigators said the Ortiz family’s vehicle was struck by another car driven by an individual who was later arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.
Authorities reported that one of the parents died at the scene, while the other was transported to a hospital and later succumbed to their injuries. The couple’s daughter, Erin Ortiz, was also injured in the crash and taken to a hospital for treatment.
Family members told reporters that Erin suffered significant injuries, including severe wrist trauma, and has been left largely immobile as she begins what is expected to be a difficult recovery.
The driver suspected of causing the crash remained at the scene and was arrested following a breathalyzer test, sheriff’s officials said. No additional details regarding charges or court proceedings have yet been released.
Investigation: The Santa Clarita Sheriff’s Department continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. In suspected DUI collisions, investigators typically focus on toxicology results, vehicle speed, braking data, and the sequence of impacts to determine precisely how the collision occurred and whether it was preventable.
Because the crash occurred at a major intersection late at night, investigators will evaluate traffic signal timing, lighting, and vehicle right-of-way. They will review physical evidence, including debris, vehicle positions, and available footage.
In DUI-related fatal crashes, law enforcement reconstruction teams often analyze how impairment may have affected reaction time, judgment, and the ability to avoid a collision. While the investigation remains ongoing, authorities have confirmed that alcohol impairment is suspected and that the case is being treated as a criminal matter.
Legal Considerations: Suspected DUI crashes that result in death carry profound criminal and civil consequences. From a criminal standpoint, drivers arrested for DUI in fatal collisions may face felony charges, including vehicular manslaughter or DUI causing death, depending on the outcome of the investigation.
From a civil standpoint, the Ortiz family might pursue wrongful death claims for Genry and Patty Ortiz’s deaths, as well as a personal injury claim for Erin’s medical treatment, rehabilitation, and the long-term effects on her education and independence. Wrongful death actions typically cover funeral and burial costs, loss of financial support, and the profound emotional toll of losing loved ones.
I offer my deepest condolences to the Ortiz family, their church community, and everyone mourning the loss of Genry and Patty Ortiz. I also wish Erin strength and healing as she continues her challenging journey ahead.
Source: ABC7 Los Angeles