Detectives from the Fairfax County Police Department’s Crash Reconstruction Unit have charged a driver with involuntary manslaughter following a fatal crash that occurred on November 25 in the Town of Herndon, Virginia.
According to investigators, Jose Lopez Martinez, 23, of Nokesville, was driving westbound on Worldgate Drive when he failed to yield the right of way and collided with a Fairfax County Fire and Rescue ambulance that was responding to an emergency call. The crash resulted in serious injuries to his front passenger, Irvin Escobar Lujuan, 35, of Sterling. Lujuan was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead.
On December 2, authorities charged Lopez Martinez with involuntary manslaughter. He is being held at the Fairfax County Adult Detention Center without bond.
At the time of the incident, officers determined that alcohol and speed appeared to be contributing factors. Lopez Martinez had already been charged with Driving While Intoxicated – his second offense in five years – after being treated for non-life-threatening injuries at a hospital.
Detectives are asking anyone who may have information about this case to contact their Crash Reconstruction Unit at 703-280-0543. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Solvers by phone at 1-866-411-TIPS (866-411-8477), or online using the ‘P3 Tips’ App by selecting “Fairfax Co Crime Solvers.” Anonymous tipsters may be eligible for cash rewards.
Victim specialists from the department’s Victim Services Division have been assigned to assist Lujuan’s family with resources and support.
The police encourage residents to register their security cameras with Connect Fairfax County as part of efforts to help solve crimes and support investigations.
For ongoing updates about this case and other news from the department, follow their blog or social media accounts on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and Instagram at @FairfaxCountyPD.
