SANTA CLARITA, Calif. — The Santa Clarita community is rallying around a local family after a devastating traffic collision late Friday night claimed the lives of a beloved husband and wife and left their daughter fighting for her life. Genry Ortiz and Paty Ortiz have been identified as the couple killed in a multi-vehicle crash at a busy intersection, an incident that authorities say involved a driver suspected of being under the influence.

The tragedy, which occurred on Friday, February 6, 2026, has sparked an outpouring of grief and support for the surviving children, including the couple’s daughter, Erin Ortiz, who remains hospitalized with severe injuries.

A Friday Night Tragedy

The collision took place just before midnight at one of Santa Clarita’s major intersections. According to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, deputies responded to the intersection of Newhall Ranch Road and Bouquet Canyon Road around 11:30 p.m. following reports of a serious crash involving multiple vehicles.

The Scene: Upon arrival, first responders encountered a chaotic scene with several people injured.

• Fatalities: Sgt. Joana Warren confirmed that one person was pronounced dead at the scene. Another victim was rushed to a nearby hospital but tragically succumbed to their injuries shortly after arrival.

• Identification: The victims were later identified by family members as Genry and Paty Ortiz, a married couple who were traveling together at the time.

• Context: Loved ones described the couple as “God-fearing,” noting that they were driving home from church services when the crash occurred—a detail that has added a layer of profound sorrow to the community’s reaction.

The Survivor: Erin Ortiz

Traveling with her parents was their daughter, Erin Ortiz. While Erin survived the initial impact, she sustained what family members have described as “severe and life-altering injuries”.

• Condition: She remains hospitalized as medical teams continue to treat her injuries and monitor her critical condition.

• Family Impact: The crash has left Erin and her brother to navigate the sudden loss of both parents while facing a long road to physical recovery.

The Investigation: DUI Suspected

Authorities believe impairment played a major role in the collision. According to officials, a male driver involved in the crash was administered a breathalyzer test at the scene.

• Arrest: Following the field sobriety test and transport to a hospital for his own treatment, the driver was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence (DUI).

• Charges: As of Sunday, officials have not released the driver’s name or specified the charges he will face, though felony vehicular manslaughter charges are common in DUI crashes resulting in death.

Community Support: “Help the Ortiz Family”

In the wake of the heartbreak, the community has stepped up to support the Ortiz children. A GoFundMe campaign titled “Help the Ortiz Family Through This Difficult Time” was established to assist with the overwhelming financial burden they now face.

• The Goal: The funds are designated to cover funeral costs for Genry and Paty, as well as the mounting medical bills for Erin.

• Response: By Sunday, the fundraiser had already raised nearly $30,000, a testament to the impact the couple had on those around them and the community’s desire to help.

Conclusion

Genry and Paty Ortiz are remembered as a loving couple devoted to their faith and their family. Their lives were taken in a senseless act on a Friday night, but their legacy lives on through their children and the community that now surrounds them with prayer and support.

Rest in Peace, Genry and Paty.

CASE DETAILS:

• Victims: Genry Ortiz & Paty Ortiz (Deceased).

• Survivor: Erin Ortiz (Severe Injuries).

• Date: Friday, February 6, 2026 (approx. 11:30 p.m.).

• Location: Newhall Ranch Road & Bouquet Canyon Road, Santa Clarita, CA.

• Suspect: Male driver arrested for DUI.

• Support: GoFundMe for the Ortiz Family.