Hispanic Man Disappears on Christmas and Is Found in His Car—but Not as Everyone Hoped

Carlos Mendoza went missing on Christmas

Family faces tragedy

Funeral support sought

The search for Carlos Mendoza, a 21-year-old Hispanic man reported missing between December 24 and 25, ended with a devastating discovery for his family.

The Fresno County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the young man was found deceased inside his vehicle, which had been submerged about 12 feet deep in a canal.

The car was located after authorities tracked the signal from Mendoza’s cell phone, allowing them to narrow down the area where the incident occurred.

When officials recovered the vehicle, Mendoza was still in the driver’s seat with his seatbelt fastened and the airbags deployed.

Investigation Into Carlos Mendoza’s Accident Ongoing

Hispanic man found dead in car in Fresno – Photo: GoFundMe screenshot

Authorities continue to examine the circumstances that led the vehicle to end up in the canal, though no preliminary conclusions have been released.

Rescue teams reported that the body was recovered immediately after the vehicle was pulled from the water.

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The case has caused shock because the disappearance occurred during the Christmas season, when family and friends were holding onto hope that he would be found alive.

At this time, no hypothesis has been ruled out as the Sheriff’s Department gathers evidence to determine the cause of the accident.

Family Grief During the Holidays

The Carlos Mendoza’s death occurred during a time when his family was expecting to reunite and celebrate, deepening the emotional impact of the tragedy.

His loved ones shared a public message expressing profound sorrow following confirmation of his passing.

“With great sorrow, we share the devastating news of the passing of our son. At just 21 years old, his life was cut short,” the family wrote in a statement posted on GoFundMe.

They added that Christmas, which should have brought joy and togetherness, became a moment of “unbearable pain” marked by his sudden absence.

Family Requests Help With Funeral Expenses

In addition to their grief, Carlos Mendoza’s family now faces the costs associated with funeral services and other expenses related to the tragedy.

On their GoFundMe page, they thanked supporters for prayers, messages of love, and any contributions that could help them say goodbye with dignity.

“If you are able, any contribution to help us lay our son to rest would be deeply appreciated,” the family wrote.

Members of the local community have begun to rally around the family, offering solidarity and support after a loss that has shaken those who knew the young man. The case remains under investigation, while the family leans on community support to endure one of the most painful moments of their lives—following the tragic case of the Hispanic man found dead in a car in Fresno.