The brother-in-law involved in the deadly carjacking which killed a local CHP Officer in Las Vegas has also passed away.
Brandon Cruz was transported to a hospital after the accident where co-workers got word he passed away late Monday night. His brother-in-law, 33-year-old CHP Officer from Visalia, Jesus Magdaleno was killed Sunday
at the scene.
"We got the news last night that he passed away and we all still, we all still wait for him to walk through the door," said Equity Group President, Steve Duerre. Steve Duerre had worked with 31-year-old Cruz at the Equity Group in Visalia for the last six years. Duerre said Cruz was a property manager and like family.
"He left, he said see you guys on Monday. The last words you get...see you guys on Monday...and, we'll never see him again," said Duerre.
Cruz and his brother-in-law, Magdaleno (also known an Jesse) were in Vegas for Magdaleno's bachelor party. Just as they were loading into their truck sunday morning at the Flamingo Hotel, it was stolen by an alleged carjacker.
Things turned tragic when Cruz and Magdaleno jumped in the back of the truck bed. As the carjacker sped off he crashed a few blocks away into a light pole.
Magdaleno was thrown from his truck and died on scene. Cruz was taken to the hospital with life threatening injuries where he later died Monday night.
"It's something you don't hear about everyday, I mean obviously it happens everyday, but like not to people that you know," said Cruz's neighbor, Shawn White.
White is shocked by the tragedy. He said Cruz helped him find his home through his job at the Equity Group.
A memorial ride has now been scheduled by the families for the two friends whose lives were cut tragically short.
"MEMORIAL RIDE & CRUZ"
WHEN: August, Saturday 24th
START: 10:30 AM @ A&W on Mooney Blvd. in Visalia
FINISH: Pizza Factory in Three Rivers
*Donations will be accepted for the families of Officer Magdaleno and Cruz.