Man Charged in DUI Crash That Killed Teen

Police have formally arrested and charged twenty-year-old Jose Funez in connection with the death of sixteen-year-old Denver Jackson. The fatal incident occurred on May twenty-fifth, when the two were riding a motorcycle near the Santa Elena Bridge. According to investigators, Funez lost control of the motorcycle, causing it to slam into a lamppost. Jackson, who was riding as a passenger, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead shortly after. Assistant Superintendent of Police Stacy Smith confirmed that Funez was under the influence at the time of the crash, a revelation that has only deepened the heartbreak for Jackson’s family and the wider community. Funez now faces serious charges as the investigation continues. Meanwhile, loved ones are left mourning a young life cut tragically short.

 

ASP Stacy Smith, Staff Officer

“As it relates to the investigation of Denver Jackson, the sixteen-year-old male minor, police, formally arrested and charged Jose Funez a twenty-year-old Santa Elena town resident for the crimes of manslaughter by negligence and causing death by careless conduct, as well as the offenses of using a motor vehicle not covered by third party insurance, using a motor vehicle that was on license and drove motor vehicle without due care and attention as well as driving a motor vehicle with alcohol concentration above the prescribed limit. He was arraigned before the San Ignacio Magistrate court on the aforementioned charges.”

 

Reporter

“So alcohol was the main factor in the incident?”

 

ASP Stacy Smith

“We cannot conclusively say that it was the main factor. However, the investigation has disclosed that mister Funez was under the influence at the time of the incident.”