DUNCANVILLE, Texas — A heartbreaking street-racing crash in Duncanville claimed the lives of 12-year-old Lucas Reyna, his mother, 50-year-old Maria Rodriguez, and his grandmother, 78-year-old Teresa Rodriguez. Authorities have identified the suspected racers as 21-year-old Ronnie Coleman and 20-year-old Kishawn Copeland, both of whom are now facing felony charges following the deadly collision. Another 12-year-old member of the family survived emergency surgery and remains in critical condition.
The tragic crash occurred Monday night near the intersection of West Wheatland Road and South Cedar Ridge Drive. According to Duncanville police, officers responded to reports of a major collision shortly after 8:45 p.m. Upon arrival, they discovered a heavily damaged Toyota Corolla carrying the victims and a Chrysler 300 involved in the crash.
Investigators say multiple witnesses reported seeing two vehicles racing moments before one of them struck the Corolla occupied by the family. Emergency crews immediately began life-saving efforts, but Maria Rodriguez and Teresa Rodriguez were pronounced dead at the scene. Lucas Reyna was transported to a hospital, where he later died from his injuries.
The loss has deeply affected family members, friends, and the broader Duncanville community. Lucas was remembered as a joyful and caring young boy who had recently celebrated advancing to the seventh grade at Village Tech Schools. School officials described him as a student who brought kindness and positivity to everyone around him.
Police have confirmed that Coleman and Copeland were taken into custody and charged with four counts of racing on a highway, a second-degree felony. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue collecting evidence and reviewing witness statements.
As loved ones grieve the tragic deaths of Lucas, Maria, and Teresa, community members are calling for greater awareness of the dangers of illegal street racing. Their memories will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved them. :::
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