Alycia Noriega, 33, Dies in Car Crash Caused by Reckless Driver: What You Need to Know
Alycia Alice Noriega, 33, of Topeka, Kansas, was killed in a horrific car crash on Monday, October 30, 2023, after a fleeing driver collided with her vehicle at a North Topeka intersection. The driver, identified as Michael Shane Lester, 38, was arrested on Tuesday and charged with multiple crimes, including first-degree murder in the commission of a felony. This article will provide the details of the fatal accident, the cause of death, the obituary, and the latest updates on the case.
The Fatal Accident
According to Rosie Nichols, public safety communications specialist for Topeka’s city government, the accident occurred around 12:15 p.m. on Monday at the intersection of NW St. John Street and NW Tyler Street. A Topeka police officer had attempted to stop Lester’s vehicle near NE Seward and Golden avenues for traffic infractions, but Lester fled the scene. The officer did not pursue him.
Shortly after, Lester’s vehicle crashed into Alycia Noriega’s vehicle at the North Topeka intersection. Noriega was taken to a Topeka hospital, where she was pronounced dead. Lester fled on foot from the crash site and was not found until Tuesday afternoon when he was arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Jail.
READ ALSO:- Josh Sluis Died: What We Know So Far About His Cause of Death and Obituary
The Cause of Death
Alycia Noriega died as a result of injuries sustained in the crash. The official cause of death has not been released yet by the coroner’s office. However, according to Nichols, Lester was charged with first-degree murder in the commission of a felony, which implies that Noriega’s death was a homicide resulting from Lester’s reckless driving while fleeing from a law enforcement officer.
Alycia Noriega’s Obituary
Alycia Alice Noriega was born on June 15, 1990, in Topeka. She graduated from Topeka High School in 2008 and attended Washburn University, where she studied business administration. She worked as a customer service representative at a local bank. She was married to Carlos Noriega and had two children, Isabella and Mateo.
Alycia was described by her family and friends as a loving wife, mother, daughter, sister, and friend. She enjoyed spending time with her family, traveling, reading, and cooking. She was also involved in her church and community activities. She was known for her kindness, generosity, and cheerful personality.
Alycia Noriega is survived by her husband Carlos; her children Isabella and Mateo; her parents Jose and Maria Rodriguez; her siblings Luis Rodriguez (Sara), Elena Rodriguez (David), and Sofia Rodriguez (Alex); her nieces and nephews; and many other relatives and friends.
A funeral service will be held on Friday, November 3, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Topeka. Burial will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery. A visitation will be held on Thursday, November 2, 2023, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Penwell-Gabel Funeral Home in Topeka.
The family has requested that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to a trust fund for Noriega’s children at any branch of Bank of America.
See Also:- AJ Fetty Death: How a Teenager’s Battle with Liver Cancer Inspired Thousands
The Latest Updates
Lester remains in custody without bond at the Shawnee County Jail. He is facing one count of first-degree murder in the commission of a felony; one count of fleeing or attempting to elude a law enforcement officer by engaging in reckless driving; one count of reckless driving; one count of driving on a suspended license; one count of failure to stop at the scene of an accident known to result in death; one count of failure to stop at a stop sign; one count of speeding; one count of driving on the left side of the roadway; one count of driving on the left in a no passing zone; and one count of failure to wear a seat belt.
Lester is scheduled to appear in court on Wednesday, November 8, 2023, for a preliminary hearing. He has not entered a plea yet. He is being represented by a public defender.
The Topeka police are still investigating the circumstances of the crash and are asking anyone with information to contact them at 785-368-9400 or [email protected]. Anonymous tips can also be made by calling Shawnee County Crime Stoppers at 785-234-0007 or visiting www.p3tips.com/128.
The Topeka community has expressed its shock and grief over Noriega’s death and has offered its support and condolences to her family. A candlelight vigil was held on Tuesday night at the crash site, where dozens of people gathered to pay their respects and pray for Noriega and her loved ones. A GoFundMe page has also been set up by Noriega’s cousin, Jessica Rodriguez, to help the family with funeral expenses and other needs. The page has raised over $15,000 as of Wednesday morning.
Alycia Noriega’s death has also sparked a discussion about the dangers of reckless driving and the need for stricter enforcement and penalties for traffic violators. Some residents have called for more police presence and surveillance in the area, as well as speed bumps and traffic lights at the intersection where the crash occurred. Others have urged drivers to be more careful and responsible on the road and to respect the lives of others.
Noriega’s family and friends have asked for justice for her and for peace for themselves. They have also thanked the public for their prayers and donations. They have said that they will always remember Alycia as a beautiful person who touched many lives with her smile and her heart.
