San Jose

Good Samaritans Lift Car to Save Crash Victim, Hold Suspects in San Jose

Good Samaritans helped save a life after rushing to the scene of a suspected DUI crash near downtown San Jose.

The crash was reported Saturday night at Vine and Willow streets.

"I just heard a loud crash," San Jose-resident Elizabeth Nevarez said. "I knew something bad would happen."

Nevarez was one of the first on the scene after she heard the loud bang.

"I ran out here and encountered two guys running from the scene," Nevarez said.

The two people attempting to run from the scene did not get far. About  a dozen neighbors who live on Vine Street rushed to help after they realized an innocent bystander ended up trapped under one of the smashed cars.

"I just started yelling at everyone: 'Let's lift the car! Let's lift the car!'" resident Eva Martinez said. "I don't know how we did it."

The neighbors lifted the car and were able to rescue the victim, who was still hospitalized with major injuries late Monday.

Neighbors also kept three suspects from leaving the area. One of the suspects included 31-year-old Fidel Gomez, who was arrested on suspicion of felony hit-and-run and driving under the influence.

"If these guys have any history with DUI and still out driving vehicles, I'd like to see that addressed," resident Mike Sanseri said.

Neighbors said speeding in the area is a major problem.

"This street has become a death trap," Martinez said. "They fly through here."

Residents said something needs to be done about speeding vehicles in the area. For now, they said they are just happy the community was able to save a life.

"I think for each and every one of my neighbors this is going to last a lifetime," Martinez said.

San Jose Councilman Raul Peradez late Monday said he is aware of the speeding problem in the area and that coming up with ways to stop the problem is a top priority.

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