UC Merced soccer player Isaias Ruiz tragically died after a crash on Monday evening.
Isaias Ruiz was a freshman forward on the University of California, Merced men’s soccer team for the 2024 season.
A native of Mendota, California, Ruiz developed his skills and passion for the game at Mendota High School, where he stood out as a dynamic and technically skilled player.
At the collegiate level, he brought sharp attacking instincts and a work ethic to the Bobcats’ roster.
Standing at 5 feet 9 inches tall and weighing 160 pounds, he combined ability with physicality, making him a versatile threat in the final third.
UC Merced Soccer Player Isaias Ruiz Died In A Tragic Car Accident
A University of California, Merced soccer player, Isaias Ruiz, 19, tragically lost his life in a car accident that happened on Monday, July 7, 2025.
As per the California Highway Patrol, Ruiz’s car collided with a semi truck on Interstate 5 near Highway 198 near Coalinga.
UC Merced Bobcats released a statement and mourned the loss of Ruiz. They wrote,
We are heartbroken by the passing of Isaias Ruiz. Forever a Bobcat, friend, and teammate. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and loved ones.
UC Merced
A friend of Ruiz, Joey Alavarez, also offered his heartfelt condolences by stating,
He made you feel like you were the best person and only person in the world at all times no matter what he was going through,”
Joey Alvarez
Nenaa Alcala from Paso Robles, California, announced that she will be doing a fundraiser on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at Barney Schwartz Park to support Ruiz’s family with funeral costs. She wrote,
Hi friends and family we will be doing a fundraiser this Sunday July 13th at Barney Schwartz Park for the recent passing of Isaias Ruiz Carabez everything will be donated to the family for funeral expenses! We also have a Raffle if anyone would like to buy a ticket!
Nenaa Alcala
Verania Ocegueda, a graduate of California State University, has organized a fundraising campaign on GoFundMe. The campaign aims to collect over $35k, and it has collected around $26,226.
Moreover, a car wash and food sale fundraiser will be held on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at La Mexicana Imports (691 Oller St., Medota, CA). It will start at 9 a.m.
Isaias Ruiz will always be remembered for his unforgettable contribution as a soccer player. The funeral service schedule will be made available soon.
Rest in Heaven, Isaias Ruiz.
Isaias Ruiz Is Survived By His Parents And His Siblings
Born in 2006, Isaias Ruiz Carabez was raised by his mother, Carla Carabez, and his father, whose identity has not been revealed.
Although Carla stayed out of the media spotlight, she always supported Isaias in achieving his academic and athletic goals. Sadly, she lost her son, Isaias, at a young age.
Her cousin Sandra Berenice Sanchez Garcia wrote,
Carla Carabez Cousin, there are no words that can comfort your pain in this physical separation from your son. You know that I love you very much and that your pain is my pain. Our entire family is with you at this time. We pray that Isaiah is in a better place and that he helps you, Juan, Marcos, Julián, and Scarlette through this difficult process. Always in our hearts; Rest in Peace, Isaiah!
Sandra Berenice Sanchez Garcia
Close ones have offered their heartfelt condolences and sent prayers to Carla to stay strong in this difficult time.
Isaias grew up with his brother, Marcos Ruiz, and two other siblings whose personal information has been kept private.
He also shared a close bond with his cousin, Arturo Carabez Jr.
Currently, they are mourning the tragic death of their supportive brother, Isaias Ruiz Carabez.
Rest in peace, Isaias Ruiz Carabe.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Isaias’s uncle Arturo Carabez died in 2023 after being hit by a red Nissan at 42. He was in the trunk of his work truck and was getting stuff out, and the car went behind him and hit him.
- Off the field, Isaias was pursuing a degree in Management and Business Economics.
