John Carrizales Obituary, Death – On Saturday morning, a tragic motorcycle accident occurred on Interstate 35 in South Austin during the annual Ride for the Fallen event, leading to the death of 51-year-old John Carrizales. According to the Austin Police Department, Carrizales was involved in a collision with another motorcyclist near the Slaughter Creek Overpass around 10:44 a.m. Despite efforts by Austin-Travis County EMS medics to resuscitate Carrizales, including performing CPR at the scene, he was pronounced dead shortly after the crash.
The other motorcyclist involved in the accident remained at the scene and, fortunately, did not sustain any injuries. The individual is cooperating fully with the ongoing investigation, as confirmed by the Austin Police Department (APD). The fatal crash occurred during the Ride for the Fallen, an annual event organized by the Combined Law Enforcement Associations of Texas (CLEAT). The ride began at the Harley-Davidson dealership in South Austin and was scheduled to end at the Peace Officer’s Monument at the Texas Capitol.
The CLEAT, in a statement shared on the social media platform X, expressed deep sorrow over the incident. The organization emphasized that the safety of participants is always their top priority during the event. Law enforcement agencies traditionally provide an escort for the riders as they travel from Harley-Davidson in South Austin to the Capitol grounds, ensuring the safety of all involved. The statement also extended condolences to the family of the deceased rider and assured the public that local authorities were conducting a thorough investigation into the crash.
This tragic incident marks Austin’s 27th fatal crash of 2025, contributing to a total of 31 deaths on local roads this year. By comparison, the same date in 2024 saw 24 fatal accidents, resulting in 24 fatalities. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding Carrizales’s death is still ongoing, with APD urging anyone with relevant information to contact them at 512-974-8111.
As the investigation continues, officials are working to piece together the details of the crash to determine what factors may have contributed to the tragic outcome. With the cooperation of the involved motorcyclist and the thorough efforts of local law enforcement, investigators hope to gain a clearer understanding of what led to the collision. Meanwhile, the family and friends of John Carrizales, as well as the broader law enforcement community, are mourning the loss of a man who was participating in an event meant to honor fallen officers.
The Ride for the Fallen event, which attracts many participants each year, is dedicated to remembering and paying tribute to law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty. It is a poignant and significant occasion for the community, with riders coming together to show respect for those who have made the ultimate sacrifice while serving and protecting others. Carrizales’s tragic death casts a shadow over the event, highlighting the risks that come with participating in large gatherings like this one.
In the wake of the crash, there has been an outpouring of support from both the public and the law enforcement community, with many expressing their condolences and thoughts for Carrizales’s family. The event’s organizers and participants are also reaffirming their commitment to safety, with CLEAT emphasizing that the safety of all participants remains their number one priority. The organization and local law enforcement agencies are continuing to review the event’s safety protocols and work toward preventing similar incidents in the future.
As for the ongoing investigation, the Austin Police Department is thoroughly examining all aspects of the crash, including road conditions, the actions of the involved parties, and any potential mechanical issues with the motorcycles. Given that the crash occurred in a highly trafficked area of the city, investigators will also look into whether factors such as traffic flow or visibility may have contributed to the collision.
The tragic death of John Carrizales serves as a reminder of the dangers that motorcyclists face, particularly in high-traffic areas and during large events. While the Ride for the Fallen is a heartfelt and meaningful event, this incident underscores the importance of maintaining vigilance and prioritizing safety when participating in such gatherings. As authorities continue their investigation, they are urging the public to stay informed and share any relevant information that could assist in uncovering the full circumstances of the crash.
The Austin community, along with those who took part in the Ride for the Fallen, will undoubtedly feel the impact of this tragic loss. The memory of Carrizales, who was engaged in an event dedicated to honoring fallen officers, will remain a poignant reminder of the importance of safety and the risks that come with riding on the road. The investigation continues, and those affected by the incident are hoping for answers that may help prevent future tragedies.
