A Las Vegas man, identified as OhRyan Brooks, has been arrested in connection with a devastating crash that claimed the life of 12-year-old Cristofer Suarez near Owens Avenue and 21st Street last week. The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) confirmed that Brooks admitted to inhaling THC from a vape pen shortly before the collision.
According to investigators, the fatal crash occurred around 7:40 a.m. Friday as Cristofer was walking to school. Witnesses reported seeing a speeding SUV in the school zone moments before it struck the young boy, who was crossing the street in a marked crosswalk near Rancho High School. Surveillance footage later confirmed that Cristofer was hit and thrown into a nearby church fence. The driver fled the scene without stopping.
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Police traced the SUV, a Mitsubishi, to a nearby apartment complex after identifying the vehicle’s license plate. Officers found the car with visible front-end damage consistent with the crash. At the scene, Brooks approached investigators and admitted he was the driver, telling officers that he did not realize he had struck anyone.
Brooks told police he had inhaled THC from a vape pen between 6:00 and 7:00 a.m. and blamed the morning sunlight for obstructing his vision. Officers noted that Brooks appeared impaired, describing him as “swaying” and “slurring his words.” After failing field sobriety tests, he was arrested and taken into custody following a court-approved blood draw.
Despite emergency responders’ efforts, Cristofer Suarez succumbed to his injuries on Monday night, according to the family’s attorney. The heartbreaking loss has sent shockwaves through the Las Vegas community, with friends, classmates, and teachers remembering Cristofer as a bright, kind, and curious student who brought joy to those around him.
Brooks now faces multiple felony charges, including driving under the influence resulting in death and leaving the scene of an accident. A preliminary hearing has been set for October 21, while investigators continue to gather evidence and review toxicology results.
The tragedy has reignited community discussions about school zone safety and the dangers of impaired driving. Parents and local advocates are calling for stricter speed enforcement near schools and greater public education on the consequences of driving under the influence — even of substances like THC.
As the Suarez family mourns the loss of their son, they have received an outpouring of love and support from the community. A memorial with candles, flowers, and heartfelt notes now stands near the site of the crash — a poignant reminder of a young life cut short.
Authorities are urging anyone with additional information about the incident to contact the LVMPD at (702) 828-3786 or reach out anonymously through Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555.
The death of Cristofer Suarez serves as a painful reminder of the responsibility every driver bears to protect the most vulnerable — especially in school zones where children’s lives depend on vigilance and care.