LAS VEGAS (KLAS) – A family is demanding justice after a 23-year-old Las Vegas man was hit and killed by what police described as a suspected DUI driver in the southwest valley.
“He was a big guy,” Valerie Odabi said of her son. “But he wouldn’t bust a grape.”
Joree Odabi’s family, speaking with 8 News Now on Thursday, described him as always there for anyone.
“He was the most lovable,” Valerie Odabi said. “He was kindhearted, he was so sweet.”
The 23-year-old had his entire life ahead of him until everything changed Tuesday.
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A family is demanding justice after a 23-year-old Las Vegas man was hit and killed by a suspected DUI driver in the southwest valley. (Credit Justice Odabi) -
A family is demanding justice after a 23-year-old Las Vegas man was hit and killed by a suspected DUI driver in the southwest valley. (Credit Justice Odabi) -
A family is demanding justice after a 23-year-old Las Vegas man was hit and killed by a suspected DUI driver in the southwest valley. (Credit Justice Odabi)
“I was inside our cul-de-sac and I see flashing lights,” Justice Odabi, Joree Odabi’s brother, recalled. “And my heart dropped.”
Joree Odabi was taking his daily walk around the block, near Warm Springs Road and Torrey Pines Drive, when police said a car jumped the curb, ran into a light pole, and hit him.
Police arrested the driver, identified as 38-year-old Daniel Stakleff. He faces several charges, including DUI resulting in death, reckless driving, and failure to maintain his lane.
Officers also found an empty marijuana vape cartridge, along with receipts and a bag from a dispensary, in his car after the crash, according to police documents.
“The laws are not strict enough, they are not strong enough,” Valerie Odabi said. “They don’t do anything for the victims.”
Valerie and Justice Odabi are now demanding justice in this case and others like it.
Clark County District Attorney Steve Wolfson also spoke on crashes involving impairment this week, sharing a similar sentiment.
“We have to get the message out,” Wolfson said. “To try to make people think twice before they get behind the wheel after consuming alcohol, prescription drugs, or illegal drugs.”
Joree Odabi’s family told 8 News Now they will always remember him for the light he brought to life.
“I wish I could hear my brother’s voice again,” Justice Odabi said. “I wish I could hug him one more time.”
A man who was taken before his time truly began.
“I can’t believe that my son will not come back home,” Valerie Odabi said.
A judge denied Stakleff’s bail during his first court appearance, and he is being held at the Clark County Detention Center. He is due back in court on Monday.
The Odabi family started a GoFundMe to help with funeral expenses.
