A tragic video captures the emotional moments as a Wisconsin family says goodbye to their 19-year-old son, Brady, who lost his life due to an alleged drunk driver. The video, shared by his mother, Jen Heiling, depicts family and friends in tears as doctors transported Brady’s lifeless body through the hospital, a “donate life” sign visible on the stretcher, indicating his intention to donate organs.
“Brady Allen Heiling, you are so loved!” his mother expressed in a heartfelt post.
As loved ones gathered around him, connected to a breathing machine, they leaned on him, crying as they shared their last moments together.
In a devastating incident, 18-year-old Harry Helgeson also lost his life after being struck by the alleged drunk driver, Noelia Salei Martinez Avila, 30, who was driving her SUV the wrong way on an interstate outside of Madison. Reports indicate she hit a vehicle on July 20th, resulting in the deaths of two teenagers.
Helgeson died at the scene, while Heiling survived for five days after being airlifted following the crash, eventually succumbing to his injuries despite several surgeries.
DHS spokesman Tricia McLaughlin stated that “Harry Helgeson and Brady Heiling could have been alive today if not for Noelia Salei Martinez Avila, an undocumented immigrant from Honduras.”
After the tragic loss, Jen Heiling shared her grief online, stating that their family is “weak, tired, and broken-hearted,” emphasizing the need for healing.
She expressed a desire for her son’s organs to be donated to save more lives.
This accident wasn’t Martinez Avila’s first trouble with the law; she had previous DUI convictions since November 2020 and faced multiple traffic violations. Reports indicated that she was required to have a device installed in her car that prevents driving if alcohol is detected, but it was not in place during the crash.
Additionally, the DHS criticized the sanctuary policies in Dane County, suggesting a history that could lead to the release of dangerous individuals.
Martinez Avila faces charges of two counts of felony homicide by vehicle and impaired driving. ICE has taken custody of her as they pursue her deportation.
