Families demand justice after deadly wrong-way crash in downtown Tulsa

Two families are heartbroken and calling for justice after a suspected drunk driver caused a wrong-way crash that killed one man and left another in critical condition in downtown Tulsa.

Sunday Ride That Ended in Tragedy

Family members say 28-year-old Felix Aguilar and 21-year-old Carlos Arteaga had just left a birthday party Sunday evening when they decided to take a motorcycle ride — something they often did together.

“They all get on the bikes and drive to downtown… like usually they do. And then supposed to go back — but that never happened.”

– Marianella Arevalo, family friend and sister-in-law to Felix Aguilar.

Wrong-Way Driver Hits Motorcyclists Head-On

According to the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, Aguilar and Arteaga were heading westbound on the IDL when they were struck head-on by a suspected drunk driver going the wrong way.

64-year-old James Basse was arrested and later booked on charges of DUI and first-degree manslaughter.

Remembering Carlos Arteaga

Carlos Arteaga was killed in the crash. His sister says he’ll be remembered as joyful, caring, and full of life.

“They spent a lot of time together, enjoyed every holiday and birthday.”

– Carlys Artega

“He enjoyed soccer, riding on the bike… he was very, very close to Felix.”

Carlos and Felix were more like brothers than friends, according to family members.

Felix Aguilar Faces a Long Road to Recovery

Felix survived the crash but is now in critical condition. He’s undergone multiple surgeries, including the amputation of a leg and a finger, and suffered several broken bones throughout his body.

“He tells everyone not to cry… but we know this isn’t easy for him.”

Felix is an engineer, has recently bought a new home, and loved traveling with his wife. Now, his future is uncertain.

“We don’t know if he’ll be able to return to his job… or the life he had before.”

Family Frustrated Suspect Is Out on Bond

Basse was released on bond, and that decision has left the family feeling angry and unheard.

“It’s painful… just the next day, to see that person out on the streets again," Marianella Arevalo said.

What’s Next?

The families say they plan to be present at Basse’s upcoming court hearings, demanding that the justice system take their loss seriously.

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