Ruthy Trenche Chávez was found guilty of causing the deaths of José J. Díaz Serrano and Eduardo E. Álvarez Sosa, who were hit by her vehicle while riding horses on PR-188 in Loíza. The incident occurred on March 23, 2024.
Judge Edgar Figueroa Vázquez of the Carolina Court of First Instance delivered the verdict. Trenche Chávez was driving a 2019 Toyota Tundra when she swerved onto the shoulder and hit the two men and their horses. Díaz Serrano died at the scene, while Álvarez Sosa died several days later due to his injuries. Both riders were wearing reflective vests at the time of the accident.
Trenche Chávez was found to have a blood alcohol concentration of 0.15%. She was convicted of violating articles 7.02 and 5.07C of the Puerto Rico Vehicle and Traffic Law, but was acquitted of violating article 7.06C of Law 22 of 2000. Prosecutors Juan M. Mencacci Bagú, Marcos Algarín Echandi, and Gilberto Gierbolini Merino presented the case, which began in January 2025.