Jose Saenz Ventura Car Accident – Victim Identified Following Fatal Memorial Day Crash in Roanoke

A tragic Memorial Day crash in Roanoke City has claimed the life of Jose Saenz Ventura and left another individual facing serious criminal charges following a violent collision at a busy intersection Monday morning.

According to Roanoke Police, officers responded around 11:23 a.m. to the intersection of Lafayette Boulevard and Melrose Avenue NW after receiving reports of a serious two-vehicle crash. When emergency crews arrived, they found a Chevy Equinox abandoned at the scene and two injured occupants trapped inside a Honda Civic.

Both victims inside the Honda Civic were transported to a nearby hospital for emergency treatment. Authorities later confirmed that the driver, 30-year-old Jose Saenz Ventura of Roanoke, sadly died from the severe injuries he sustained in the collision. A passenger traveling with him survived and was treated for injuries described as non-life-threatening.

Investigators stated that the occupants of the Chevy Equinox allegedly fled the scene on foot immediately after the crash rather than remaining to assist. Police launched a search of the surrounding area and later located two individuals nearby on Crescent Street NW.

Authorities subsequently arrested 42-year-old Kenneth Lynn Campbell Jr. of Roanoke in connection with the incident. He has been charged with involuntary manslaughter and felony hit-and-run.

Preliminary findings indicate that Jose Saenz Ventura was attempting to turn left onto eastbound Melrose Avenue while having a green light when the Chevy Equinox allegedly ran a red light and collided with the Civic, causing catastrophic damage.

The sudden loss of Jose Saenz Ventura has left family members, friends, and loved ones grieving a heartbreaking and unexpected tragedy. Those who knew him continue to mourn a life taken far too soon during what should have been a peaceful holiday.

The incident has also renewed conversations surrounding reckless driving, roadway safety, and the dangers of leaving the scene of a serious accident. Meanwhile, investigators continue working to determine all circumstances surrounding the fatal collision.

May Jose Saenz Ventura rest in peace.