Midvale community rallies to support families after tragic car crash
Mar 30, 2025, 9:00 AM | Updated: 1:16 pm
The accident claimed Bustamante Martinez’s life and left Gabriel hospitalized, sending shockwaves through the close-knit community.(Martinez Family)
(Martinez Family)
SALT LAKE CITY — Last weekend, Midvale was struck with tragedy when two local teens, Elijah Bustamante Martinez and Donny Gabriel Castro Hernandez, were involved in a devastating car crash. The accident claimed Bustamante Martinez’s life and left Gabriel hospitalized, sending shockwaves through the close-knit community.
Both teens were beloved employees at the Culver’s restaurant in Midvale, and on Friday night, the restaurant was honoring their memory and supporting their families by donating 25% of its sales. The restaurant has been packed all day, as locals come together to show their support.
“We love these kids,” said Kelly Kirkland, the owner of Culver’s. “Both are really hard workers. Donny was excited about a future in auto repair, and Elijah was deeply religious. This team is like family.”
Bustamante Martinez’s family described him as someone truly special.
“He was love — very smart, beautiful, and full of love. We’re devastated by what happened,” Bustamante Martinez’s aunt Sarah Gutierrez said. “I’m going to miss everything about him.”
At school, Bustamante Martinez’s was equally remarkable.
“His presence was very impactful. He was running for student body president, and it was clear he was going to make meaningful changes,” Bustamante Martinez’s classmate Isabella Toledo said. “In just a short time, he made more of an impact than most people do in a lifetime.”
Friday night’s fundraiser was not only about providing financial support to the families but also about remembering Bustamante Martinez’s joy, his laughter and the light he brought to those around him.
His family is grateful for the community’s kindness, as they work to cover funeral costs with the help of donations, including a GoFundMe* campaign.
*KSL NewRadio does not assure that the money deposited to the account will be applied for the benefit of the persons named as beneficiaries. If you are considering a deposit to the account, you should consult your own advisors and otherwise proceed at your own risk.
Related: 16-year-old killed in Midvale car accident, passenger in critical condition
