SAN DIEGO — A 16-year-old boy from Imperial Beach who was killed in an early morning wrong-way crash on I-5 South has been identified.
Thomas Ryder Shoup also known as Ryder Day was driving Southbound on I-5 early Wednesday morning when he collided with a 67-year-old woman who was driving the wrong way, heading Northbound near Palomar Street in Chula Vista.
Both drivers were trapped in their cars as they became fully engulfed in flames. Ryder and the woman both died at the scene, according to California Highway Patrol.
According to Ryder’s family, he was also a new father. Ryder's family has set up a fundraiser that reads,
“Ryder has been surrounded by so much love since the day he was born and could light up a room with his infectious smile.
He was able to accomplish so much at just 16 years old and leaves behind his son Marcelo, and his girlfriend Eliana, who meant the world to Ryder. He was also a loving son, brother, and uncle.
His parents, Ashley & Derek and Danielle & Tommy, are going through something that no parent should have to go through.”
Ryder was a tenth grader at Mar Vista High School in Imperial Beach. CBS 8 obtained a letter sent to Mar Vista High School families on Wednesday that read in part,
"It is with great sadness that I share with you the news about the death of one of our beloved students, Ryder Shoup. Our entire school community has been profoundly affected by this loss. Ryder was a kind 10th grade student with a memorable smile. He was actively involved in our football program and served as a lifeguard in the community.
We are committed to providing the support and care needed to help our students during this difficult time."
A candlelight vigil is being planned to remember Ryder on Saturday, April 13 starting at 5 pm at the Imperial Beach Skate Park.
According to CHP a toxicology report is pending through the San Diego County Medical Examiner’s Office to determine if alcohol/and or drugs were a factor in the crash.
The crash investigation is ongoing. If any member of the public witnessed this incident or has additional information, contact the CHP San Diego Area at (858) 293-6000.
The identity of the 67-year-old woman has not been released.