Three Members of Young Family Killed in Christmas Day Crash in Walla Walla County
With profound sorrow and broken hearts, the community remembers and honors the lives of Gustavo Guzman-Gomez, 34, Nashiely Bustamante, 27, and their 6-month-old son, Giovanni, all of Moses Lake, Washington, who were killed in a tragic crash on Christmas Day in Walla Walla County. What was meant to be a joyful trip to visit family became an unimaginable loss that has deeply affected loved ones and an entire community.
According to the Washington State Patrol, the family was traveling eastbound on Highway 12 just outside of Touchet when a pickup truck driven by a 22-year-old man from Benton City crossed into the eastbound lanes and struck their vehicle head-on. Authorities said the impact of the collision was severe, causing the pickup truck to come to rest on top of the family’s car.
Gustavo Guzman-Gomez and Nashiely Bustamante were pronounced dead at the scene. Their infant son, Giovanni, who was properly secured in a seatbelt, was transported to a nearby hospital, where he later died from his injuries. The driver of the pickup truck was also taken to the hospital, though officials have not released information about his condition.
Investigators with the Washington State Patrol stated that the reason the pickup driver lost control of his vehicle remains under investigation. Preliminary findings indicate that weather conditions, drugs, and alcohol do not appear to have been contributing factors, though authorities noted that conclusions could change as the investigation continues and additional evidence is reviewed.
Gustavo and Nashiely were a young couple filled with hope and plans for the future, much of which revolved around their baby son. Their trip that day was centered on family and togetherness, with the promise of holiday memories that will now live on only through remembrance. Giovanni, just six months old, represented innocence and possibility, and though his life was heartbreakingly brief, he was deeply loved.
In the aftermath of the tragedy, a GoFundMe campaign has been established to assist the family with funeral expenses as they navigate this devastating loss. Funeral arrangements are being handled by Mountain View – Colonial DeWitt in Walla Walla. The outpouring of support reflects both the impact this family had on others and the compassion of a community coming together during a time of grief.
As the community remembers Gustavo Guzman-Gomez, Nashiely Bustamante, and baby Giovanni, many are reflecting on the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing loved ones. Their names will continue to be spoken with love, their memories held close, and their bond as a family remembered always.
