For many young Latinos in Southern California, working at the FIFA World Cup represents a chance to be part of something historic. But for the family of Aaron Avery, a 22-year-old security guard, that dream turned into a nightmare. Avery was killed by a suspected drunk driver while walking home from his second shift at SoFi Stadium, after the match between Iran and New Zealand.
The accident occurred around 10:30 p.m. on Monday near Van Ness Avenue, just minutes from the stadium. Avery had been hired as a seasonal security worker for the World Cup, a job that promised steady income and pride for his family. Instead, it ended in tragedy.
A Family's Grief and Demand for Justice
Avery's sister, Monique Yates, told local media that the driver claimed he didn't see Avery because of dark conditions and his black clothing. But Yates rejected that excuse. “Clothing doesn’t justify hitting someone,” she said. The family is demanding full accountability, and the driver has been arrested on suspicion of DUI.
His aunt, Norma Quinn, confirmed that the family is pushing for a thorough investigation. “We want justice for Aaron,” she said. The incident has cast a somber shadow over the World Cup festivities in Inglewood, a city with a large Latino population that has long supported major sporting events.
The tragedy also highlights the risks faced by essential workers, many of whom are Latino, who commute to and from stadiums and other venues. As Miami-Dade's Rising Cost of Living Pushes Essential Workers Out, similar pressures are felt across the country, including in Los Angeles County, where affordable housing near job centers is scarce.
Medical Efforts and a Lasting Legacy
After the crash, Avery was rushed to a local hospital with a catastrophic traumatic brain injury. He was placed on life support but died the following day. In a final act of generosity, his organs were donated, saving up to eight lives. His family launched a GoFundMe to cover funeral expenses, raising over $5,000 from the community.
The tragedy also raises questions about stadium security and worker safety during mega-events like the World Cup. With World Cup 2026 Security at Risk as US Surveillance Law Expires, the need for better protections for workers and fans alike is more urgent than ever.
For the Latino community in Southern California, Avery's death is a painful reminder of the human cost behind the spectacle. As his family mourns, they hope his story will lead to safer streets and greater accountability for reckless drivers.
