Enrique Lopez: ‘Thrill-seeking’ NYC driver charged with manslaughter after deadly collision with parked oil tanker kills 2 passengers

Warning: This article contains a recollection of crime and can be triggering to some, readers’ discretion advised.

BRONX, NEW YORK: A driver in NYC was involved in a fatal collision with a parked oil tanker truck, resulting in the deaths of two passengers, namely 15-year-old Sabrina Villagomez and 21-year-old Giovante Roberson, as per New York Post.

Following the tragic collision, the 23-year-old NYC driver, Enrique Lopez, has been charged with manslaughter, criminally negligent homicide, assault, criminal possession of stolen property, endangering the welfare of a child, reckless endangerment, and criminal mischief.

What happened at the crime scene?

The tragic collision occurred when driver Enrique Lopez allegedly lost control of white Chrysler 300 and collided with a parked oil tanker truck at the corner of Bryant and Viele avenues around 3.20 am on Sunday, January 21.

Notably, police reported that a 17-year-old girl in the back seat was hospitalized in a critical condition.

Prior to the fatal crash, Lopez had been attempting to perform stunts but failed to account for a slight slump in the road, cutting through the heart of an industrial area near the East River, as described by the owner of the totaled truck. 

Identified as Chip, the truck owner stated, "There was salt on the road, and there’s a dip, so when he hit that, he started losing control."

Chip continued, "I saw what happened, I saw what happened right after the accident, I saw how many kids were outside trying to open the doors."

According to police sources and wreck footage, Lopez was swerving out of control just before his car collided with the parked fuel truck.

Images of the aftermath depict the Chrysler extensively damaged, with visible damage to the truck's hood and bumper. Lopez had been reportedly driving recklessly as part of a meet-up with thrill-seeking motorists. 

Following the crash, he was also hospitalized and listed in stable condition. His relationship to the young riders in his car was unclear as of Friday, January 26.

What did victim's family say?

Sabrina Roberson-McCray, the mother of Giovante Roberson, shared her heart-wrenching farewell to her son as he lay lifeless in the hospital, whispering, "Mommy's here." 

Reflecting on the 21 years she spent with him, she expressed, "Those 21 years were the best years of my life. He was my best friend."

Continuing, she fondly remembered his love for Michael Jackson and his talent for mimicking the pop icon. She said she had videos of him showcasing his dance skills. 

She highlighted his passion for travel and his unwavering support for her. She added, "He loved to help me. Everything he did for me. He was here with me every day."

Jay Ben, a 27-year-old friend of Roberson, mourned his friend's untimely death.

The two victims attended Ramapo High School in Rockland County, including Sabrina Villagomez, identified as a sophomore, according to a letter from the school district addressed to the community. 

Superintendent Clarence G Ellis expressed profound sorrow, stating, “This news is devastating for our entire East Ramapo school community, and our hearts are with the families and friends of these two students."