A tragic car crash earlier this month in Chamblee – a suburb of Atlanta – claimed the life of 37-year-old Jimmy Chang, a prominent realtor and community leader. The crash occurred at approximately 1:30 a.m. on a Sunday at the intersection of Buford Highway and Chamblee-Tucker Road when a vehicle ran a red light at a speed of 100 miles per hour.
According to law enforcement, the driver, 20-year-old Christian Fernando Irias-Ruiz, collided with Chang’s car in a T-bone impact. Authorities confirmed that Irias-Ruiz was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash. He faces multiple charges, including vehicular homicide, driving under the influence, reckless driving, speeding, and possessing alcohol as a minor. Additional charges stem from driving without a license, insurance, or valid vehicle registration.
Four individuals, including Irias-Ruiz and two passengers in his car, were injured and transported to the hospital. The driver of a third car involved in the crash sustained minor injuries.
Further investigations revealed that Irias-Ruiz, an undocumented immigrant from Honduras, was previously arrested by U.S. Border Patrol in South Texas in June 2021 and later released. Immigration authorities have since placed a detainer on him with the DeKalb County jail.
Jimmy Chang was an active member of the Asian Real Estate Association of America (AREAA) and served as president of its Atlanta chapter. Known for his kindness and leadership, Chang was remembered by his family and peers as someone who positively impacted many lives. His brother, Jason Chang, expressed the family’s devastation, describing the loss as a tragedy they are still struggling to comprehend, stating “We’re kind of at a loss of what to do now.”
Friends, family, and the real estate community have shared heartfelt tributes to Chang, commemorating his dedication and contributions to his community.
