LA Metro Crash Suspect Sent Chilling Text Hours Before Fatal Wreck

The driver accused of causing a fatal Los Angeles Metro bus crash that resulted in two deaths and indirectly triggered a news helicopter crash sent a disturbing text message to a friend hours before the incident, according to reports.

Bailee Lynn Rios, the driver of the SUV that collided with the Metro bus, expressed concern about her current associations in a text to her friend Brad Aragon on Tuesday afternoon. "Brad, it’s not a joking matter on this bf thing its serious and im honestly scared but yes of course imma come see you," the text read, according to The California Post.

Aragon told the publication that Rios had "big concerns lately" and had been associating with people she shouldn't be. He stated he had planned to help her with these issues. Rios is currently facing charges related to reckless driving, running a red light, and a potential DUI.

The collision occurred approximately five hours after Rios' text message exchange. The crash killed Gage Weida, 31, and Daniel Castillo, 46, who were passengers on the bus. The impact of the SUV striking the bus is believed to have caused an NBC news helicopter to crash, resulting in the deaths of pilot George Marciniw and reporter Eliana Moreno. A bystander on the ground, Edy Gutierrez Mejia, was also killed in the helicopter crash.

Aragon, who met Rios 11 years ago, shared that he had a past involving drug dealing and prison time. He stated that Rios was a supportive presence during his struggles, encouraging him to pursue rehabilitation and later to establish his YouTube channel, "The Federal Tool Box," which assists former inmates. He recalled her being proud of achieving a credit score of 700 on the day of the crash.

Rios' cousin, Katelyn Trinity, posted on Facebook expressing her continued love and support for Rios, despite the gravity of the situation. Aragon noted the potential legal consequences for Rios, suggesting she could face a sentence of 45 years to life.