A father and son, separated for 25 years, hoped to reunite for the holidays, but their emotional reunion turned tragic when the father became the victim of a suspected drunk driver. Jorge Martinez, who flew from Mexico to Chicago to reconnect with his father, Alberto, was left devastated when his father failed to show up at the train station.
Upon learning that his father had been struck by a car in downtown Waukesha, Martinez rushed to the hospital, where he discovered that Alberto had suffered multiple broken bones, a brain bleed, and damage to his heart.
According to the police, the driver, identified as Tara Felten, allegedly hit Alberto while he was on the street, then fled the scene. Thanks to a bystander who called 911, Alberto was rushed to the hospital, likely saving his life. Martinez, visibly shaken, emphasized the importance of taking responsibility for one’s actions, urging others not to drive under the influence.
Alberto, who had worked tirelessly at the Lake House Cafe in Oconomowoc to support his family back in Mexico, was described by his son as a hero. Martinez recalled how his father had sacrificed so much to provide for his family, sending money back to Mexico over the years. Now, the father’s role had shifted as his son stayed by his side in the hospital.
Felten, facing charges of hit-and-run and intoxicated use of a vehicle, is accused of committing the crime while intoxicated, marking her third OWI offense. Martinez shared a heartfelt message for Felten and others who drink and drive, urging them to consider the consequences of their actions. In the wake of the incident, the family has started a GoFundMe campaign to assist with Alberto’s growing medical expenses.
