A devastating incident in Pomona, California, has claimed the lives of a young pregnant woman and her boyfriend after they were struck by a suspected drunk driver this week. The tragic collision occurred on Wednesday night near Garey Avenue and County Road, leaving the community in mourning.
Victims Identified as Expectant Parents
Jennifer Loera Zarco, aged 25, and Marc Trejo, aged 26, were traveling in their sedan when the fatal crash took place. According to police reports, 31-year-old Marshal Judson crashed into their vehicle with his pickup truck, resulting in immediate fatalities for both individuals. The sedan was described as a mangled wreck, and both victims were pronounced dead at the scene, as reported by KTLA.
Heartbreakingly, Zarco and Trejo were only minutes away from their home at the time of the incident. Zarco was pregnant, with her due date set for April 20. The couple had eagerly anticipated the arrival of their son, whom they planned to name Elliott. Family members expressed profound grief over the loss, highlighting the couple's excitement about starting a family.
Family Tributes and Emotional Statements
Amber Torres, Zarco's sister, shared memories of her sibling's joy, stating, 'We just had her baby shower and she was so happy and excited.' Another sister, Andrea Solorio, lamented the family's inability to witness Zarco become a mother, saying, 'We didn’t even get to meet the baby. But I know she definitely would’ve been the best mom that she could be.'
Trejo's family also spoke of his readiness to embrace fatherhood, with hopes of raising his son to become a star soccer player. The dual loss of the couple and their unborn child has left loved ones devastated, prompting the creation of a GoFundMe campaign to assist with funeral expenses. As of Friday afternoon, the fundraiser had garnered nearly $26,000 in donations.
Suspect's Criminal Background and Charges
Marshal Judson, the suspect in the case, was already under police pursuit prior to the crash due to an alleged domestic violence incident. Authorities reported that at approximately 9:30 p.m., Pomona police officers were interviewing the individual who had called 911 about Judson when he returned to the scene and rammed into a patrol car.
Judson then fled, initiating a police chase that ultimately led to the collision with Zarco and Trejo's vehicle. He was apprehended at the scene and found to be driving without a valid license. The charges against him are severe and include:
- Vehicular manslaughter
- Assault with a deadly weapon on a peace officer
- Driving under the influence
- Driving without a valid license
- Felony evasion
Additionally, firearms-related charges were added after police discovered a gun and various weapon components inside his vehicle. This incident underscores the dangers of impaired driving and has sparked conversations about road safety and legal accountability in the region.
