La Quinta teen dies after hit-and-run collision earlier this month
Cynthia White
LA QUINTA, Calif. (KESQ) – Liam Cantu, a 14-year-old La Quinta High School freshman, has died in the hospital after being struck by a drunk driver, according to the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office.
Cantu was one of two teens riding their bikes on Highway 111 in La Quinta when a driver, later identified as 47-year-old Jose Villegasorbe of Palm Springs, fled the scene.
Statement from La Quinta High School Principal O’Mara
Authorities said the other teen victim has been released from the hospital and is recovering at home.
Villegasorbe is now facing charges including vehicular manslaughter, DUI, hit-and-run and probation violation.
The news comes just days after the community held a prayer ceremony for Cantu at the La Quinta High School baseball field, who was fighting for his life at the hospital.
The collision happened two weeks ago, on Friday, October 10.
Shortly after the collision, News Channel 3 spoke exclusively with Cantu’s parents as they pleaded for prayers and support.
Cantu’s parents described their son as someone who is funny, outgoing, loved to dance and had an impact on everyone in his life.
They also said the crash came as Cantu was excited to join the La Quinta High School baseball team.
The Sheriff’s Office says this remains an active investigation, and anyone with information is urged to contact Deputy Martinez at the Thermal Sheriff’s Station or call anonymously at 760-341-STOP (7867).