SANTA CLARITA, Calif. — The Santa Clarita community is reeling from the devastating loss of Genry and Paty Ortiz, a beloved husband and wife who were killed late Friday night in a suspected DUI-related crash in the Saugus area. Their sudden deaths have left family, friends, and neighbors heartbroken, while their daughter continues to fight through recovery after suffering severe injuries in the collision.
The fatal crash occurred around 11:30 p.m. at the intersection of Newhall Ranch Road and Bouquet Canyon Road, a heavily traveled corridor in the Santa Clarita Valley. Los Angeles County Sheriff’s deputies and Los Angeles County Fire Department personnel responded to reports of a multi-vehicle crash involving multiple victims. Authorities confirmed that one person was pronounced dead at the scene, while another later died at a nearby hospital as a result of their injuries.
Genry and Paty Ortiz were later identified as the victims through a GoFundMe fundraiser created to support their surviving children. Family members shared that the couple had been returning home from church when the crash occurred, turning what should have been a routine and peaceful drive into a life-altering tragedy. Their daughter, Erin Ortiz, was rushed to the hospital with what her family described as severe and life-changing injuries. She remains under medical care as loved ones surround her with support and prayers.
Law enforcement officials stated that a male driver involved in the crash was given a breathalyzer test at the scene and was subsequently arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence. Investigators continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the collision, and no additional details have yet been released as the case remains under active investigation.
Genry and Paty Ortiz are being remembered as a deeply devoted couple whose lives were grounded in faith, love, and service to others. Friends describe them as compassionate, kind-hearted, and unwavering in their commitment to their family and community. Their strong faith and generosity left a lasting impression on everyone who knew them, and their sudden loss has created a profound sense of sorrow throughout Santa Clarita.
In the days following the tragedy, the community has come together in an outpouring of support. The GoFundMe campaign, titled “Help the Ortiz Family Through This Difficult Time,” has raised nearly $30,000 as of Sunday. Funds are intended to help cover medical expenses for Erin, funeral costs, and ongoing support for the Ortiz family as they navigate an unimaginable loss. The overwhelming response reflects how deeply Genry and Paty were loved and respected.
As Santa Clarita mourns, many are also reflecting on the devastating consequences of impaired driving. Loved ones hope that honoring Genry and Paty’s memory will include renewed awareness about the importance of making responsible choices behind the wheel.
Genry and Paty Ortiz leave behind a legacy of faith, love, and devotion that will live on through their children and the countless lives they touched. Though their lives were tragically cut short, their memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew them. The community continues to hold the Ortiz family close in thought and prayer during this incredibly difficult time.