The Las Vegas community is grappling with a tragedy that occurred last week, involving a catastrophic hit-and-run incident. Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) has named 20-year-old Luis Angel Equihua Murillo as the suspect responsible for the deaths of two teenagers when his vehicle reportedly barreled through a red light at the intersection of Charleston and Hollywood boulevards. The somber news was reported by News3LV and echoed in a briefing given by LVMPD.
During the harrowing incident that occurred shortly after midnight on July 5, a 1997 Honda CRV was struck by what police describe as a speeding GMC Sierra pickup. As per the details shared, the suspect, Equihua Murillo, is believed to still be within city limits, though he has evaded capture since the tragic event unfolded. In a statement obtained by FOX5 Vegas, Sgt. Rich Rundell of the LVMPD extended a direct plea toward Murillo, stating, "It's not too late to do the right thing. You need to take accountability and responsibility for what happened that night. Turn yourself in."
The collision proved fatal for the two occupants of the Honda, Ethan Velasquez, 19, and Julian Torres, 18. According to multiple sources, the teens were close friends and had futures full of promise. Having just graduated from high school, Julian Torres was prepared to join Ethan at the University of Nevada, Reno, where the latter was excited about his second year of college education.
Caught up amid the aftermath and grieving, Ethan's mother, while surrounded by the support of the community and police, expressed the devastating impact the accident has imposed on their families. In an interview outlined by FOX5 Vegas, she conveyed the emotional burden, saying, "Instead of planning that trip, I find myself planning his funeral. Our families need closure and justice in this tragedy." Her words reflect the stark reversal of anticipation to mourning, as plans of celebration are suppllicitously supplanted by funeral arrangements.
LVMPD is calling for anyone with information that could lead to locating Equihua Murillo to come forward. Tips can be submitted to LVMPD's Collision Investigation Section at (702)828-3595 or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at (702)385-5555. Information can also be provided via the Crime Stoppers of Nevada website or the "P3" mobile app. As stated by authorities, any tip leading to a felony arrest or an indictment may be eligible for a financial reward, paving a path for potential tipsters to contribute to the quest for justice.
