Young Man Survives Tragic DUI Crash That Claimed His Family [Hesperia, CA]

HESPERIA, CA (February 28, 2024) — A devastating head-on collision orchestrated by a driver under the influence claimed the lives of a family from Southern California, leaving Francisco Valencia-Saucedo of Barstow as the tragic sole survivor. 

The DUI crash in Hesperia occurred as Francisco and his family were en route to Yaamava’ Casino in Highland, turning their weekly family night into a nightmare on Mariposa Road.

The collision, caused by 45-year-old Pavlo Padilla of Victorville, resulted in the immediate loss of Francisco’s parents, Rosa and Pedro, and his older brother Jose. 

Despite the unbearable loss, Francisco, who is now grappling with severe injuries including a ruptured spleen and fractured ribs, is surrounded by the support of his cousins and community as he prepares for the difficult task of laying his loved ones to rest at Sunset Hills Memorial Park and Mortuary.

In response to the tragedy, a GoFundMe has been set up to alleviate the funeral expenses, paying tribute to a family known for their community engagement and strong family values. This incident serves as a solemn reminder of the dangers of DUI and the irreplaceable loss it can cause.