Parents of 14-Year-Old Liam Cantu Push for Stronger DUI Laws After Son’s Death

The parents of 14-year-old Liam Cantu — killed by a drunk driver in October — are speaking out publicly for the first time as they push for changes to improve road safety in California.

Jennifer Perez and Jesus Cantu say that while upgraded murder charges against the driver, Jose Villegasobre, represent a step toward justice, their focus is on preventing future tragedies. According to the family, evidence from the investigation shows that in the moments leading up to the October 10 crash, Villegasobre stopped at multiple stores to buy more alcohol — missed opportunities, they say, for him to make the responsible choice to stop driving.

In Liam’s memory, the Cantu family is now calling for tougher DUI penalties, stronger laws, and expanded education on the real consequences of drinking and driving. They also plan to partner with organizations such as Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) to help reduce alcohol-related roadway deaths across the state.

We’ll have more from our conversation with the Cantu family — including their message to drivers and their goals for statewide advocacy — in our midday newscast.