The Dinuba Police Department is defending itself following a chase that led to the death of eight people, three in the suspect vehicle and five children in a pickup they hit.
The family of one of the men killed Saturday in the car crash near Orosi is speaking out.
Arhtur Rivas was riding in the stolen Dodge Neon that was being pursued by Dinuba Police.
The suspects in the stolen vehicle have been identified as 17-year-old Oscar Esparaza, 16-year-old Richard Carrasco and 19-year-old Arthur Rivas.
Joe Medina, Arthur Rivas’ cousin said, “He was a good kid. He was at the wrong place at the wrong time, being a passenger.”
Medina says it’s been an especially hard for the family who has now lost three sons over the past four years. The family wants a thorough investigation by CHP of the accident.
Dinuba Police were not available for comment but Dinuba Police Chief James Olvera released the following statement: “Administrative polices were followed appropriately.”
Donations to help cover funeral expenses for the Salazar’s five children are being accepted through a special fund at Rabobank, Union Bank, Wells Fargo and Bank of America. Just mention the Salazar’s Children’s Fund when making a contribution.
The family is also asking for people to donate blood at the Central California Blood Center under Jennifer Salazar.
