LAS VEGAS, NV — A tragic accident has left a family devastated after a UNLV grad student lost his life in a Christmas trip. The student, Darren Westby, was killed in a head-on crash on Highway 14 in California while on his way home. This devastating event comes just weeks after Westby had experienced a mass shooting on the UNLV campus, making the situation even more heartbreaking for his loved ones.
The father, Bill Westby, mourns the loss of his son and remembers him as a bright and adventurous soul who loved the outdoors. According to Bill, Darren and his fiancé, Jocelyn Brown, were heading home for the holidays when the accident occurred. Brown survived the crash, but with severe injuries, including a broken back and fractured skull. Their dog, Moose, miraculously escaped unharmed.
Despite their tragedy, Darren and Jocelyn’s love story continues to inspire those who knew them. They had plans to marry in May and had recently moved in together. Both were described as adventurous and kind-hearted individuals who found joy in spending time outdoors.
After enduring the trauma of a campus shooting, the couple had embarked on a trip to Mammoth Mountain before heading home for the holidays. The Westby family is now focused on supporting Jocelyn in her recovery, grateful for the outpouring of support from the UNLV community.
The California Highway Patrol is still investigating the cause of the crash, and it has been determined that alcohol was not a contributing factor. Darren’s untimely death has brought immense sadness to those who knew him, and his memory will be cherished by his loved ones and the university community.