CHATSWORTH, CA – The Camacho family is speaking out for the first time after suddenly losing a beloved member, Manny Camacho. Last week, a piece of lumber from a truck abruptly ended his life on the 118 Freeway in Chatsworth, crashing through his windshield and hitting him.
Manny’s mother, M’Liss Silva, shared that her 23-year-old son passed away from severe blunt-force trauma to his torso due to the accident. Initial reports had suggested Manny was impaled by the wood, but Silva clarified that while that was not the case, the impact was forceful enough to prove fatal.
His uncle, Marc Martinez, described Manny as a meticulous driver and expressed disbelief and despair over the tragic accident. His aunt, Megann Martinez, also fondly referred to him as their “first son”, emphasizing the collective effort the family put into raising him. His sudden and premature demise has left a significant void in the family, who remember him as a young man striving to make a positive impact.
Manny’s family emphasized his academic excellence and athletic prowess. A proud graduate with a 4.0 GPA in high school, he was also a league champion in football, wrestling, and track. His achievements continued into his freshman year at Azusa Pacific University, where he made the dean’s list.
Despite the painful memories, Manny’s mother, M’Liss, battles the crushing reality of her son’s absence daily. While the family mourns, the California Highway Patrol is working to unravel the details of the accident.
As the medical examiner’s office retains Camacho’s body, a memorial service may be delayed until early February. The family now seeks financial support during this challenging time.