Six Farmworkers Killed in Napa County Van Crash Identified

Six Farmworkers Killed in Napa County Van Crash Identified

Authorities have identified the six farmworkers who tragically lost their lives in a devastating van crash Sunday evening in Napa County. The victims, all from Stockton, were passengers in a Toyota Sienna minivan that veered off Pope Valley Road, struck a tree, and overturned.

The Napa County Coroner’s Office named the deceased as Fernando Silverio, 34; Loreto Ricardo Hernandez, 42; Aron Ruiz, 39; Beymar Reynosa Rodriguez, 32; Demetrio Celerino Francisco, 39; and Pedro Lopez Gomez, 57. Families are now mourning the sudden loss of loved ones, with many describing the men as hardworking fathers and dedicated providers.

Authorities determined the van was driven by Norberto Celerino, 53, of Stockton, who was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash. Prosecutors revealed Celerino had a prior DUI conviction and announced six counts of murder in connection with the incident.

For the agricultural community, this tragedy highlights the vulnerabilities of migrant and farm laborers, many of whom face low wages, long hours, and unsafe transportation. Advocacy groups say this incident underscores the urgent need for stronger protections and oversight for farmworkers who rely on shared transportation.

GoFundMe campaigns have been launched to support the victims’ families. Friends and community members have expressed outrage and grief, calling the loss “preventable.” Napa County leaders are urging the public to remember the dangers of impaired driving and the devastating ripple effects it leaves on families and communities.