Christian Brandon Castro has been sentenced to 13 years for the death of 12-year-old Addiel Diaz and 10 years for the injuries caused to his 8-year-old brother in a crash linked to impaired driving.
The crash happened on April 6, 2025, on SH 242. That night, Addiel had just left McDonald’s with his mom and two brothers after watching the Minecraft movie, a night he told his mom was the best of his life.
Moments later, their Chevrolet Tahoe was rear-ended near the H-E-B on SH 242. The impact crushed the rear of the vehicle where Addiel was sitting. He suffered severe head trauma and was Life Flighted to the Texas Medical Center, where he later passed away.
His mother, Joana, said she remembers seeing his smile just before the crash and is urging people to understand that drinking and driving takes lives.
Joana and her two other children were also seriously injured.
Castro was taken into custody on July 15, 2025, following an arrest warrant.
Joana shared that her children are at peace and that Addiel is finally resting. She said her son will always matter and his light will never be erased.
