Tragic freeway crash impacts Southern California youth soccer community

Families and youth soccer communities in Southern California are grappling with the devastation caused by a tragic car accident that resulted in the deaths of two teenage boys, a man, and a woman. The fatal crash, believed to be the result of an illegal race, occurred on Interstate 15 in Temecula on Saturday. A BMW was speeding north when it veered left and crossed the median, colliding with an oncoming Nissan Sentra, leading to a fiery collision that claimed the lives of 15-year-old Jacob Labib, 14-year-old Mina Sabet, 22-year-old Yostena Sabet, and 35-year-old Nicholas Callans. The driver of the BMW, Girgis Alber, Yostena Sabet's fiancé, was critically injured and will face charges following treatment for vehicular manslaughter, child endangerment, and involvement in a speed contest. The tragic loss has deeply affected family members, church communities, and fellow youth soccer players. Jacob and Mina were not only teammates but close friends who had spent the day playing in a soccer tournament. Their families often shared the responsibility of taking the boys to games. A GoFundMe page has been set up by Lynn Perez, the head of soccer operations for the SoCal Reds, to assist with funeral expenses, and has received an outpouring of support. The youth soccer community has come together to show their solidarity and offer condolences to the grieving families, emphasizing the impact that Jacob and Mina had as friends and leaders within the sport. Despite the profound loss, Jacob's father, Jonah Labib, finds solace in his faith during this difficult time.