With profound sorrow and broken hearts, we remember and honor the lives of Gustavo Guzman-Gomez (34), Nashiely Bustamante (27), and their 6-month-old son, Giovanni, all of Moses Lake, Washington, whose lives were tragically taken in a devastating crash on Christmas Day in Walla Walla County. What should have been a joyful journey to visit family became an unimaginable tragedy that has left loved ones and an entire community mourning the loss of a young family taken far too soon.
According to the Washington State Patrol, the family was traveling eastbound on Highway 12, just outside of Touchet, when a pickup truck driven by a 22-year-old man from Benton City crossed into the eastbound lanes and struck their vehicle head-on. The force of the collision was catastrophic, causing the pickup to come to rest on top of the family’s car.
Gustavo Guzman-Gomez and Nashiely Bustamante were pronounced deceased at the scene. Their infant son, Giovanni, who was properly secured in a seatbelt, was transported to a nearby hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. The pickup driver was also transported to the hospital; his current condition has not been released.
Investigators with the Washington State Patrol stated that the cause of the pickup driver losing control of his vehicle is still unknown. Preliminary findings indicate that weather, drugs, and alcohol do not appear to be factors, though officials note that this information could change as the investigation continues and evidence is fully analyzed.
Gustavo and Nashiely were a young couple filled with hope, love, and plans for the future—plans that centered around their baby boy, Giovanni. Their journey that day was one of family, connection, and celebration, carrying the promise of holiday memories that will now live only in the hearts of those who loved them. Giovanni, just six months old, represented pure innocence and endless possibility. His life, though heartbreakingly brief, was deeply meaningful and profoundly loved.
In the wake of this tragedy, a GoFundMe has been established to help support the family with funeral expenses, as they navigate an unbearable loss. Funeral arrangements are being handled by Mountain View – Colonial DeWitt in Walla Walla. The outpouring of support reflects the deep impact this family had on those around them and the compassion of a community coming together in grief.
As we remember Gustavo Guzman-Gomez, Nashiely Bustamante, and baby Giovanni, we are reminded of the fragility of life and the importance of holding our loved ones close. Their names will be spoken with love, their memories cherished, and their bond as a family remembered forever.
May Gustavo, Nashiely, and Giovanni rest in eternal peace—together always.
