A Duncanville family is facing unimaginable heartbreak after a suspected street-racing crash claimed the lives of three relatives from three different generations. The deadly collision happened Monday night at the intersection of West Wheatland Road and South Cedar Ridge Drive, leaving a community in mourning and raising fresh concerns about reckless driving on local roads.
Police said the crash occurred around 8:45 p.m. when a white Chrysler 300 collided with a gray Toyota Corolla carrying four members of the same family. Investigators believe two vehicles were racing westbound on Wheatland Road when one of them slammed into the family’s car.
Among those killed was 12-year-old Lucas Reyna, a young boy whose family said had just celebrated moving up to the seventh grade. Also killed were his mother, 50-year-old Maria Rodriguez, and his grandmother, 78-year-old Teresa Rodriguez. The tragedy wiped out three generations of one family in a matter of seconds.
First responders rushed to save the victims after arriving at the scene. Despite their efforts, Maria Rodriguez and Teresa Rodriguez were pronounced dead at the crash site. Lucas was transported to a hospital but later died from his injuries.
Another 12-year-old boy, identified by relatives as Lucas’ cousin, survived the crash. Family members said he underwent surgery and remains hospitalized in critical but stable condition. Loved ones continue to pray for his recovery as he fights through severe injuries.
Authorities said the driver of the Chrysler 300 was the only person inside the vehicle and did not suffer major injuries. Investigators later determined that illegal street racing was likely a major factor in the crash based on witness statements and evidence gathered at the scene.
Police identified the suspected racers as 21-year-old Ronnie Coleman and 20-year-old Kishawn Copeland. Both men were taken into custody and face four counts of racing on a highway, a second-degree felony. Additional charges could follow as the investigation continues.
The heartbreaking loss has shaken Duncanville residents. Family members are remembering Lucas as a bright and joyful child with his whole future ahead of him. What should have been an ordinary Monday evening instead became a devastating tragedy that forever changed the lives of everyone connected to the family.
