Men killed in Newark crash mourned by community

(KRON) — Families are mourning two East Bay men who were killed in a single-car crash in Newark.

Luis Alberto Deras, 31, of Union City, and Anthony “Pnut” Andres Reynoza Monchez, 33, of Hayward, died after their car crashed and one of the men was ejected. The deadly wreck happened near the intersection of Thornton Avenue and Hickory Street just before 5:30 p.m. Thursday.

The Newark Police Department identified Monchez as the driver and Deras as the passenger.

Deras’ family member wrote on a GoFundMe page, “Luis was not just my younger brother; he was a vibrant light in the lives of so many. He leaves behind his beloved son, our parents, and two brothers who will forever cherish his memory. His infectious personality had a way of brightening any room he entered, and his warmth and generosity drew people to him. Luis was the kind of person everyone wanted to be around. Growing up together, Luis wasn’t just my little brother; he was my protector, my loyal friend, and a loving person. The bond we shared was irreplaceable, and his spirit remains a powerful presence in our lives.”

Monchez’s family described his sudden death as “beyond heartbreaking.” The family’s GoFundMe page states, “His laugh, jokes, presence , love and his very own way of always showing up for others will always be remembered. Kindly we ask donations for funeral services to show my brother love and give him a proper last farewell.”

Both families are raising donations for the crash victims’ funerals.