Cape Coral Tragedy: Stephanie Rivas and 6-Year-Old Son Mateo Die After Vehicle Plunges Into Canal
CAPE CORAL, FL – June 4, 2025 — A tragic crash in Cape Coral has claimed the lives of a devoted mother and her young son after their vehicle veered off the road and submerged in a canal along Veterans Memorial Parkway. The victims have been identified as 35-year-old Stephanie Rivas and her 6-year-old son, Mateo Rivas, both residents of Cape Coral.
The incident occurred Tuesday afternoon, June 3, around 2:45 p.m., prompting a swift and massive emergency response. According to the Cape Coral Police Department, the crash took place along Veterans Memorial Parkway, between Surfside Boulevard and Pine Island Road, shutting down all westbound lanes for several hours.
A Rapid Response, and Then Heartbreaking News
Emergency personnel arrived on the scene to find the Rivas family’s vehicle fully submerged in a roadside canal. Dive teams and first responders acted quickly to pull the victims from the water. Both Stephanie and Mateo were transported to nearby medical facilities in critical condition.
At 3:16 p.m., Cape Coral Police released an update confirming the crash involved serious injuries and advised that the roadway would remain closed as officers conducted a full investigation.
By 8:35 p.m., traffic flow had resumed, but the community’s fears were confirmed the following morning. In a somber announcement issued at 8:00 a.m. on June 4, Cape Coral Police confirmed that both mother and son had succumbed to their injuries.
“We are deeply saddened to report that both the child and adult injured in the traffic crash have passed away,” the statement read. “Our thoughts are with their loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.”
Remembering Stephanie and Mateo
Stephanie Rivas was known by friends and neighbors as a hardworking and compassionate woman who poured her heart into raising her only son. A single mother, she was often seen walking Mateo to school or attending local events with him hand in hand. Those close to her say their bond was inseparable.
Mateo, a kindergartner at Gulf Elementary School, was described as energetic, imaginative, and loving. He adored superheroes, loved coloring, and was always excited to share his latest school project with his mom.
“Stephanie’s life revolved around Mateo,” said family friend Carla Mendoza. “She gave him everything she could and raised him with love, patience, and joy. The world is darker without them.”
Grief has quickly spread across the Cape Coral community. A growing memorial now stands at the crash site, with flowers, candles, balloons, and stuffed animals placed in honor of the mother and son.
Investigation Ongoing
Police are continuing to investigate the cause of the crash. It remains unclear what led the vehicle to leave the roadway and enter the canal. Investigators are examining possible contributing factors including mechanical failure, distracted driving, or a medical emergency.
Anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has dashcam footage from the area is urged to contact the Cape Coral Police Department Traffic Homicide Unit at (239) 574-3223. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-780-TIPS (8477).
A Community in Mourning
Local leaders and school officials are working to support those impacted by the loss. Grief counselors have been made available at Gulf Elementary School, and plans are underway for a community vigil in the coming days.
Friends of the family have also started efforts to raise funds for funeral expenses and support surviving relatives. A GoFundMe page is expected to be launched shortly.
As Cape Coral reflects on this profound loss, the memory of Stephanie and Mateo Rivas lives on in the hearts of all who knew them — a mother’s love, and a child’s light, gone far too soon.