Andrew Silva - U.S. Marine - a victim of Impaired Driving in Fremont, California

Andrew Silva, his wife and his son

Lance Corporal Andrew Silva, age 23, of Union City, died on March 25, 2014, on a street in Fremont, California.

Andrew was driving his motorcycle after 1:00 a.m. on the way to his in-law's house where his wife and son were waiting.  A car ran a red light and plowed into his motorcycle on Fremont Boulevard.  Andrew died at the scene.

Alexander Yohn

Earlier that evening, Alexander Yohn, age 23, of Emeryville, had gone through the drive-thru of a Taco Bell Restaurant and appeared impaired and belligerent.  He tried to pay for his food with a health card and then left his wallet behind.  He drove off speeding.

A police officer tried to stop Yohn.  It was then that Yohn ran a red light and struck Andrew Silva, fatally injuring him.  Yohn then crashed into a utility pole and tried to run away.

Alexander Yohn admitted that he is a heroin addict. He has a previous drunk driving conviction.  He has been charged with murder, vehicular manslaughter and hit and run.

Andrew had attended James Logan High School in Union City where he played football.

Angels of God, pray for Andrew

Andrew was a Marine reservist and had returned from Afghanistan in February. He had served a one year tour of duty in Helmand Province.

Friends describe him as a good kid and a good son. He was easy going, quiet and mellow.

Family members are devastated over his senseless and tragic death. He will be forever mourned.

To All Drivers: If you find that you are drunk or doped up on street drugs or prescription drugs or if you are falling asleep on your feet, do NOT drive. Call a family member or a friend for a ride; or take a taxi; or stay where you are until you sober up; or crawl home on your hands and knees. It will be better for you and for the world if you do. Regret can last a lifetime.

Andrew is survived by many loving friends and family members including his wife and son. 

Pray for all who die by misadventure. They are with us one moment and gone the next.

God save us from the drunk and doped up drivers. They are killing us, Father. 

Pray that Andrew is in heaven. Pray that he is at peace and is with God. Amen.