Richmond man facing murder, DUI charges following fatal crash

RICHMOND – A 30-year-old Richmond man is facing murder and driving under the influence charges in connection with a crash last week that left a 16-year-old boy dead.

A felony complaint filed by the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office accuses Alexi Alexander Pineda Ticas of murder, driving under the influence of an alcoholic beverage causing injury and driving with a .08% blood alcohol content causing injury.

The driving under the influence charges come with enhancements alleging great bodily injury, elevating the offenses to “serious and violent felonies,” according to prosecutors.

Pineda Ticas was arraigned on the charges Monday.

The fatal collision happened just after midnight on July 15 at Ohio Avenue and South 20th Street in Richmond. Prosecutors said the teen was leaving his mother’s residence when Pineda Ticas sped through a stop sign and crashed into his vehicle.

The boy was pronounced dead at the scene. The coroner’s office identified him as Ricardo Funes.

Pineda Ticas, meanwhile, was taken to an area hospital, where he was treated for his injuries and released.

“This tragic incident has not only taken the life of a teenage boy, but it has also devastated his family,” District Attorney Diana Becton said in a statement Monday.

“We will seek justice by holding the defendant accountable for actions that were both deadly and reckless,” Becton continued. “An incident like this is an emotionally wrenching reminder of the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol.”

Pineda Ticas’ bail was set at $1.1 million. He remains in custody at the Martinez Detention Facility.