News Summary
Buena Park is grieving the sudden loss of Jose Mantecon, a dedicated construction worker tragically killed in a workplace accident on the 91 Freeway. At 45, Jose was a loving husband and father, remembered for his adventurous spirit and deep commitment to his family. The community is rallying around his family, raising funds for support and advocating for increased safety measures for highway workers. This devastating incident serves as a somber reminder of the dangers faced by those working on our roads.
Heartbreaking Loss in Buena Park: Family Mourns the Tragic Death of Jose Mantecon
Buena Park residents were met with devastating news as the community mourns the sudden and tragic loss of Jose Mantecon, a dedicated construction worker whose life was cut short in a horrific accident on the 91 Freeway. This heart-wrenching incident took place in the early hours of the morning on March 21, 2025, when a 22-year-old driver collided with Jose, leaving his family reeling.
The Accident: A Sad Reminder of the Dangers on the Road
According to reports, the accident occurred around 3:54 a.m. on the freeway, when a Ram pickup truck hit Jose as he was working. Thankfully, the young driver was unhurt and stayed at the scene, but no arrests were made, and authorities indicated that alcohol and drugs were not contributing factors. Nevertheless, this incident has left a family shattered and a community searching for answers.
A Devoted Family Man
Jose Mantecon, at just 45 years old, was not only a hardworking Caltrans subcontractor but also a loving husband to Carla and a devoted father to their two children, 12-year-old Maddie and 9-year-old Logan. Just a day after his tragic passing, the family had planned an exciting dirt bike trip in the desert, which now feels like a cruel reminder of what they have lost.
Family Hobbies and Memories
Jose was a man who dedicated his life to his family. Known for his adventurous spirit, he often included his loved ones in his hobbies, whether it was surfing, dirt biking, or boating. These shared experiences built strong bonds, and Jose was a loving, engaging father, always present for his children. The family’s activities together created a mosaic of happy moments that will now serve as bittersweet memories.
A Cherished Love Story
Jose and Carla first crossed paths while working at Bank of America. Their love story blossomed over time, filled with laughter and warmth. They embarked on their first date a year later, with love emerging during a company party where they became engaged, ultimately tying the knot in 2012. Together, they built a beautiful life and created a home filled with love and adventure.
Community Support & A Call for Action
In the aftermath of this heartbreaking loss, the local community has rallied to support the Mantecon family. A GoFundMe campaign was launched and has already raised over $62,000 as of March 25. Carla is expressing her gratitude for the kindness but is also using this opportunity to advocate for increased safety measures for highway workers. She emphasizes the vital need for all drivers to stay alert, especially in construction zones, to protect the lives of those who work tirelessly on our roads.
Expressing Grief: A Family’s Heartbreak
The loss of Jose extends far beyond just his immediate family. They describe the void left in their lives, with Carla sharing that the emotional impact is felt throughout the whole family. Jose’s mother, Vivian, expressed her deep sorrow over not being able to hug her son again, highlighting the heart-wrenching reality that comes from losing a beloved family member.
A Community Comes Together
The incident serves as a somber reminder of the fragility of life, bringing to light the critical need for awareness on our highways. For the Mantecon family, the journey ahead is filled with painful reflections and cherished memories, as they strive to cope with the loss of a remarkable man who meant so much to so many.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- OC Register
- Wikipedia: Transportation Safety
- KTLA
- Google Search: Construction Worker Safety
- Fox LA
- Google Scholar: Highway Worker Safety
- ABC7
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Traffic Accidents
- Arash Law
- Google News: Construction Worker Accident Buena Park
