The family of a Pennsylvania musician who was allegedly killed by an illegal immigrant fleeing a crash is mourning the loss of the 23-year-old victim. Christian Sluka’s aunt, Marcia Goisse, expressed her heartbreak. “There was nobody like him. He provided solace during my struggles. I don’t know how we’ll go on without him,” she shared.
Sluka was returning home on his motorcycle after watching his cousin perform at a local bar. He was struck and killed in Dormont, Pennsylvania, on Saturday evening.
Noah Goisse, Sluka’s cousin, recounted the night. “It’s surreal. We were there that night. I was in his band. I had just played an acoustic set at a local bar near his house. He joined us, saying he had a tough week and needed to unwind.”
ABSOLUTELY TRAGIC
Saul Rivera-Ramirez, an illegal, ran over 23-year-old Christian Sluka, kiIIing him.
Ramirez then fled from the scene before eventually being caught by the police.
Christian was a talented musician who leaves behind his mom and three brothers. pic.twitter.com/oXqyXcPvbb
— Libs of TikTok (@libsoftiktok) September 23, 2024
Sluka spent the evening with Noah and friends from 8-10 PM, helping Noah carry equipment back to his car. “He said it was a nice night for a bike ride. He put on his helmet and gloves, showing off how safe he was being. He honked and waved as he rode off. Then, he made a left turn, and that’s when it happened,” Noah explained.
Noah found some comfort knowing Sluka spent his last moments with people he cared about and doing what he loved. Marcia hopes for justice. “We have faith in the justice system that the person responsible will face the full extent of the law. It’s hard for our family to accept this because of the person Christian was,” Marcia said through tears.
Police identified the driver as 25-year-old Saul Rivera-Ramirez. Officials stated Rivera-Ramirez fled the scene with a female and a small child after the crash. ICE confirmed Rivera-Ramirez was an illegal immigrant previously deported.
“Saul Rivera-Ramirez is a noncitizen unlawfully in the U.S. He was previously removed and reentered without permission,” said an ICE spokesperson. “After his arrest, we lodged an immigration detainer with Allegheny County Jail, but it’s unlikely to be honoured.”
Noah struggles to comprehend the driver’s actions. “It makes us physically sick that someone could cause such a tragedy and walk away without trying to help,” he said. “Even just to hold his hand in those final moments. It sickens us.”
Marcia expressed her pain. “He took away the heart and soul of our family. I pray the driver feels the same pain we do, not physically, but understands how much he’s hurt us.”
Rivera-Ramirez faces several charges, including homicide by vehicle and driving without a license. He is in Allegheny County Jail awaiting a preliminary arraignment.
Noah hopes people remember his cousin’s impact. “He was an animal lover, loved the outdoors, and his bike. As a musician, his creativity and understanding of art were remarkable. His contribution to the world is irreplaceable,” he said.
What Other Media Are Saying
- Yahoo News reports on a deadly hit-and-run crash in Dormont, where an undocumented immigrant, Saul Rivera-Ramirez, is accused of killing 23-year-old Christian Sluka, and is now facing multiple charges.(read more)
- Fox News reports on a fatal hit-and-run in Pennsylvania involving an undocumented immigrant, Saul Rivera-Ramirez, who fled with a woman and child after striking a young musician. His family prays for justice and pain to be felt by the suspect.(read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Who was Christian Sluka?
Christian Sluka was a 23-year-old Pennsylvania musician who was killed in a motorcycle accident.
How did Christian Sluka die?
Christian Sluka was struck and killed by a car while riding his motorcycle in Dormont, Pennsylvania.
Who was responsible for the accident?
Saul Rivera-Ramirez, an illegal immigrant, allegedly struck Christian Sluka and fled the scene.
What charges is Saul Rivera-Ramirez facing?
Saul Rivera-Ramirez is facing charges including homicide by vehicle and driving without a license.
How is Sluka’s family coping with the tragedy?
Sluka’s family is seeking justice and remembering the positive impact he had on their lives.
