Las Vegas DUI: Teen Pleads Guilty in Fatal Crash

by Ethan Brooks

Teen pleads Guilty in Fatal Las Vegas DUI Crash That Claimed Life of 10-year-Old

A heartbreaking case concluded its initial phase this Monday as 17-year-old Henrry Norberto pleaded guilty to a charge of fatal DUI, resulting in the tragic death of Brandon martinez, a 10-year-old boy. The plea was entered during a hearing presided over by Judge Mary Kay Holthus, marking a meaningful step toward accountability in a case that has deeply impacted the Las Vegas community.

The agreement accepted by Norberto,reached between his defense team and the prosecution,carries a potential sentence ranging from 3 to 15 years in state prison. This outcome underscores the severe consequences associated with impaired driving and its devastating impact on innocent lives.

Did you know? – Nevada law defines DUI as operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08% or higher,or under the influence of any controlled substance. Penalties increase with repeat offenses and aggravating factors.

Details of the Interstate 15 Collision

The devastating incident unfolded in June of last year on Interstate 15, near the well-known Las Vegas Motor Speedway. According to reports from the Nevada state Police, Norberto was operating a vehicle traveling in the wrong direction when he collided head-on with the vehicle carrying Brandon and his father.

The circumstances surrounding the crash immediatly prompted a full inquiry, revealing the tragic sequence of events that led to Brandon Martinez’s death. The collision serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by driving under the influence.

Norberto’s wrong-way driving led to the fatal collision,resulting in Brandon Martinez being pronounced dead at the scene. Brandon’s father sustained serious injuries but survived. The investigation persistent that Norberto was impaired at the time of the crash, though specific details regarding his BAC have not been publicly released.

Pro tip – If you plan on drinking, designate a sober driver, use a ride-sharing service, or take public transportation. Never get behind the wheel impaired.

Next Steps in the Judicial Process

While Judge Holthus has accepted Norberto’s guilty plea, the legal proceedings are not yet complete. A sentencing hearing has been scheduled for March 16, 2026, where judge Holthus will determine the specific length of Norberto’s prison sentence.

This final hearing will provide an opportunity for victim impact statements and further consideration of the case’s details before a definitive sentence is imposed. The outcome will undoubtedly be closely watched by advocates for road safety and those affected by the consequences of DUI.

Norberto pleaded guilty to one count of DUI causing death. The plea avoids a trial, and the agreed-upon sentencing range allows judge Holthus discretion based on the severity of the crime and Norberto’s potential for rehabilitation. The case concluded with a guilty plea after a Nevada State Police investigation determined Norberto was driving under the influence when he caused the fatal crash on Interstate 15.

Reader question – What role should community involvement play in preventing future tragedies like this one? Share your thoughts.

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