Desmond Rivera Critically Injured in Multi-Vehicle Crash in Oklahoma City
On March 27, 2025, a catastrophic multi-vehicle collision in Southwest Oklahoma City left 20-year-old Desmond Rivera with life-altering injuries, challenging his ability to walk again. Rivera and three coworkers were stationary near the Hobby Lobby Distribution Center when their vehicles were struck from behind by 24-year-old Braulio Delgado, a speeding driver who police say has never held an Oklahoma driver’s license. The forceful impact sparked a chain reaction, leaving Rivera with severe neck and spinal cord injuries. Pulled from the wreckage by a coworker, he was urgently transported to OU Health University of Oklahoma Medical Center, where he underwent surgery on Saturday. Though currently paralyzed from the chest down, Desmond’s determination and progress in physical therapy offer hope to his family, Charlotte and Willie Rivera, who remain by his side during this arduous recovery.
The Rivera family, while thankful for Desmond’s survival, confronts a future filled with uncertainty and significant medical costs, potentially requiring specialized out-of-state treatment. To support his rehabilitation, they have established a GoFundMe campaign and a donation fund at Bancfirst locations, inviting community assistance for their son’s journey ahead. Meanwhile, Delgado’s arrest underscores the legal consequences awaiting him, with the Riveras hoping he learns from this tragedy.
