C2D News

The boy who lived: A wake-up call for every driver in Encinitas

Author: Dan Rhodes

Last Wednesday evening, Coast Highway 101 in Encinitas became the scene of what could have been an unthinkable tragedy. A 2026 Chevy Silverado driven by Edward De La Torre, 64, collided with a 2022 Toyota Prius, then veered off the road and crashed directly into Gelato 101 at 480 S Coast Hwy 101.

Inside, a 9-year-old boy named River was pinned beneath the truck’s front tire. Dozens of witnesses sprinted toward the wreck. Among them, Angelo Colello dropped his ice cream and jumped into action, helping clear debris and keep the scene controlled until first responders arrived. Against all odds, River was pulled to safety. He suffered broken bones, but he is expected to be OK and even gave a brave thumbs up as he was freed.

Relief and a reckoning

It was a miracle. But it was also a moment of reckoning for our community. Deputies arrested the truck’s driver on suspicion of driving under the influence. When impaired driving ends with a child trapped under a vehicle, we are reminded how thin the line is between a close call and a catastrophe.

What penalties could follow?

While prosecutors decide what to charge, California law allows for serious consequences when DUI is involved, especially when injuries occur. Depending on the facts, that can mean: 

  • DUI with injury charges, which significantly increase fines and potential jail or prison time.
  • Felony exposure when injuries are significant or multiple people are hurt.
  • License suspension or revocation, mandatory education or treatment, probation terms, and restitution to victims and businesses.

Bottom line: even a first-time impaired drive can trigger life-altering penalties, legal, financial, and personal.

The human cost

Gelato 101’s storefront was so damaged that the truck itself was helping hold up the structure. The shop will be closed for months for repairs and insurance work. River will heal, but the ripple effects, the fear, the what-ifs, stick with families, witnesses, and the small businesses that make Encinitas feel like home.

Why this hits home for Clear2Drive

At Clear2Drive, this story hits close to home, literally and figuratively. We exist to reduce exactly this kind of risk. Every time someone turns a key or presses Start, there is a decision: Am I fit to drive? Impairment is not just about alcohol; fatigue, certain medications, and distraction can be just as deadly. Encinitas is also the neighboring city to Clear2Drive’s headquarters here in California

From near-tragedy to action

River’s thumbs up is a powerful symbol that action works, from bystanders who jumped in to the pros who finished the rescue. Let’s carry that momentum forward:

  • Plan ahead: Rideshare, designated drivers, or just waiting it out.
  • Check yourself: If you’re tired, medicated, or emotionally overwhelmed, don’t drive.
  • Be the friend who intervenes: Take the keys. Make the call. Save a life.

As Encinitas rebuilds and River recovers, let’s make the choice every time to be Clear2Drive.

 

9-year-old cheats death in Encinitas gelato-shop crash – NBC 7 San Diego

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