Las Vegas mom’s incredible journey to recovery after hit-and-run
From grocery run to life-altering tragedy
A North Las Vegas mother is rebuilding her life just three months after surviving a devastating hit-and-run crash that cost her a leg. On Sunday, April 13, at around 2 p.m., 30-year-old Brittani Mathis pulled over near the intersection of Craig Road and Losee Road. She had just begun a routine trip to Sam’s Club to shop for her children when her life changed forever. As she stepped out to check something in her trunk, an SUV came speeding down the road and struck her from behind. The impact knocked her to the ground—and then the SUV backed up and hit her a second time. The driver fled, continuing several blocks before crashing into another vehicle. Witnesses nearby stopped the suspect and held him until police arrived.
Arrest and legal update
North Las Vegas police identified the driver as 29-year-old Ryan Ugarte. He was arrested at the scene and later charged with several serious offenses, including DUI resulting in substantial bodily harm, failing to stop at the scene of a crash involving injury, reckless driving, and leaving the scene of an accident. According to court documents, Ugarte pled guilty on May 5 to multiple charges. His sentencing is scheduled for August 8.
The road to recovery
Mathis was taken to the hospital in critical condition. In addition to broken ribs and severe burns, the crash shattered her left leg and caused irreparable damage to her right. Doctors were forced to amputate her right leg to save her life. Her recovery has been nothing short of remarkable. Her mother, Cynthia Collins, shared how dire things were in the early days: “The first two days, we didn’t think she was going to make it. The doctors told us to prepare our hearts, so I’m really proud that she has overcome so much.”
Rebuilding life one step at a time
Today, Brittani is focusing on healing and adapting. She’s learning to walk again using a prosthetic, going through daily therapy, and adjusting to a new normal—both physically and mentally. The outpouring of support from her family, neighbors, and local organizations has helped her regain hope. “It’s not just about recovering,” she said in a recent interview. “It’s about reclaiming my life.”
A message for Las Vegas
Brittani Mathis’s story is a powerful reminder of the dangers that reckless and impaired driving pose to our community. It’s also a call to action for better pedestrian safety measures and stronger accountability for hit-and-run offenders. As Brittani continues her road to recovery, she hopes her story will inspire others and lead to meaningful change in Las Vegas. Her strength—and the support she has received—highlight what’s possible when a community comes together in the face of tragedy.
Image Source: https://www.8newsnow.com/video/las-vegas-mom-recovers-months-after-losing-leg-in-hit-and-run-crash/10871356/
Category: Local News
Subcategory: Crime & Safety
Date: 07/08/2025
