'Lives are being lost': Houston couple killed in car accident on Christmas Eve

A couple was killed in a hit-and-run accident as they headed to church to celebrate Christmas Eve.

"There was no Christmas after that. Just no Christmas,” Santos Sapon said.

The couple’s Camry was driving onto South Gessner when motorist Alessio Bevinetto slammed into them with his Chevrolet pickup truck, ABC13 reports. According to witnesses, the suspect was seen running away from the scene.

He was later arrested at his apartment and charged with two counts of failing to render aid. The list of charges is likely to increase.

Authorities believe Bevinetto was likely under the influence of alcohol during the crash, but cannot charge him due to lack of evidence after he left the scene.

“Had the Chevrolet truck been traveling at a close to normal speed, the Camry would have been fine,” said Sean Teare, the chief of vehicular crimes with the Harris County District Attorney’s office.

Family members described the couple as “inseparable” and married nearly 40 years, according to Click2Houston.

“Marta sang as part of the choir, and Don Juan enjoyed playing his guitar for the church,” one family member said. 

The incident has raised concerns among the community.

“Like, nothing is ever done. There are always major accidents right here and lives are being lost,” neighbor Lisa Machado commented.

Surrounding residents are now calling for precaution measures, such as traffic lights, to be added at South Gessner and Neff Road, which is infamous for speeding.

“Put up a light. I really think putting up a stoplight. A light is necessary because it is too much,” said neighbor Yorbeli Martinez. “Way too many accidents. All the time accidents, one after another.”

The family is now collecting donations through their GoFundMe account to help cover the couple’s funeral expenses.