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Nogales Today
By the People, for the People
Nogales businessman charged in fatal crash
Nikita Demetrio Kyriakis Jr. faces three felony charges, including manslaughter, after his girlfriend died in the February crash.
Apr. 6, 2026 at 12:50am
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A prominent Nogales businessman, Nikita Demetrio Kyriakis Jr., has been charged with three felonies, including manslaughter, in connection with a high-speed crash that killed his 35-year-old girlfriend, Mariana E. Ruiz, on February 7 in Tucson. A weeks-long investigation by the Tucson Police Department uncovered evidence of drug use and discrepancies between Kyriakis' account and the crash evidence.
Why it matters
This case highlights the serious consequences of alleged reckless driving and substance abuse, especially when it results in the tragic loss of life. As a prominent local businessman, Kyriakis' arrest has sent shockwaves through the Nogales community.
The details
According to the Tucson Police Department report, Kyriakis was driving at a high rate of speed when the crash occurred, and evidence of drug use was found. The investigation also uncovered discrepancies between Kyriakis' account of the incident and the physical evidence at the scene.
- The fatal crash occurred on February 7, 2026.
- Kyriakis was arrested on March 2, 2026, after a weeks-long investigation.
The players
Nikita Demetrio Kyriakis Jr.
A prominent businessman in the Nogales, Arizona community who has been charged with three felonies, including manslaughter, in connection with a fatal high-speed crash that killed his girlfriend.
Mariana E. Ruiz
Kyriakis' 35-year-old girlfriend who died in the February 7 crash in Tucson.
What’s next
The judge will determine whether to grant Kyriakis bail at a hearing scheduled for April 15.
The takeaway
This tragic incident serves as a sobering reminder of the devastating consequences that can result from reckless driving and substance abuse. As the Nogales community grapples with the fallout, it underscores the importance of promoting safe driving practices and addressing underlying issues that may contribute to such incidents.
