The Antelope Valley community is reeling from an unimaginable tragedy following a fatal crash near Lancaster, California, that claimed the lives of three beloved family members. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office has identified the victims as 38-year-old Vanessa Gonzalez-Gabriel, 49-year-old Abdias Gabriel-Fernandez, and 12-year-old Ruby Gabriel. All three were pronounced deceased at the scene.
The heartbreaking incident occurred on the afternoon of Wednesday, July 2, 2025, around 4:25 p.m. at the intersection of State Route 138 (West Avenue D) and 110th Street West in Antelope Acres, an unincorporated area of the Antelope Valley. According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the family was traveling in a Chevrolet Colorado pickup truck, which had come to a stop at a stop sign before suddenly accelerating into the path of an oncoming Dodge Ram 3500.
The collision was catastrophic. The impact forcefully ejected all three occupants of the Chevrolet Colorado from the vehicle. Tragically, Vanessa, Abdias, and young Ruby were all killed instantly.
A second child who was also in the vehicle sustained serious injuries and was quickly transported by ambulance to Antelope Valley Medical Center, where they underwent emergency surgery. The driver of the Dodge Ram suffered minor injuries and was also treated at the same facility.
Authorities confirmed that the collision was captured on a nearby vehicle’s dashboard camera, which provided critical footage for the investigation. After reviewing the video evidence and completing an initial inquiry, the California Highway Patrol stated that no criminal charges will be filed in connection with the accident.
This tragedy was one of two major incidents that occurred in the Lancaster area that day, deepening the community’s grief. Earlier that morning, a public transit bus headed to Rosamond veered off Sierra Highway near Avenue C, overturning onto nearby railroad tracks. That crash left several people injured and one person critically hurt.
As loved ones grieve the sudden and devastating loss of Vanessa, Abdias, and Ruby, their names stand as a solemn reminder of how fleeting and fragile life can be. Vanessa was known for her strength and love as a mother, Abdias for his wisdom and presence as a father figure, and Ruby, just 12 years old, for her bright spirit and joyful smile that touched everyone who knew her.
In the wake of this tragedy, the Antelope Valley community is coming together in mourning and support, surrounding the surviving child and extended family with love, prayers, and compassion.
Authorities continue to stress the importance of roadway safety, particularly at rural intersections like the one involved in this fatal crash. Drivers are urged to exercise heightened awareness, caution, and patience while navigating such areas.
Funeral arrangements for the victims will be announced in the coming days. In the meantime, those wishing to support the family during this difficult time are encouraged to keep them in their thoughts and prayers.
May Vanessa, Abdias, and Ruby rest in eternal peace. 🕊️ Their memories will forever be cherished by all who were blessed to know and love them.
