‘We Remember Memorial’ Bench to Honor Caleb Rickenbacher at Deputy Darren Goforth Park in Cypress
On Wednesday, May 21 at 11:00 AM, the community will gather at Deputy Darren Goforth Park (located at 9811 Wheat Cross Drive, Houston, TX 77095) to honor the memory of Caleb Rickenbacher, a 20-year-old homicide victim whose life was tragically cut short in a hit-and-run crash in Cypress. The event marks the third “We Remember Memorial” bench dedication, part of an expanding victim advocacy project launched by Harris County Precinct 3 Commissioner Tom Ramsey in partnership with Crime Stoppers of Houston.
Honoring a Life Taken Too Soon
Caleb Rickenbacher’s story is one that resonates deeply with residents across Harris County. On November 19, 2022, Caleb was killed when a stolen Jeep Grand Cherokee driven by a 17-year-old suspect, Destin Quintero, collided head-on with his car while traveling at 91 miles per hour in the wrong direction on Cypress Rosehill Road. Caleb’s girlfriend, Christina Diaz, who was also in the vehicle, sustained serious injuries but survived the crash. She later credited Caleb’s final actions with saving her life.
The suspect fled the scene, but left behind a backpack and damaged cellphone, leading to his identification. Originally charged with failure to stop and render aid, Quintero’s charges were later upgraded to murder and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. Authorities cited a troubling criminal history involving auto theft and burglary, highlighting the tragic impact of repeat violent offenses on innocent families.
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The “We Remember Memorial” Initiative
Created in January 2025, the “We Remember Memorial” project is more than just a public safety initiative—it’s a platform for healing, justice, and remembrance. The program aims to honor victims of violent crimes by placing memorial benches in local parks throughout Precinct 3. Each bench represents a life lost and a story that deserves to be remembered.
This particular dedication will feature Commissioner Tom Ramsey, representatives from Crime Stoppers of Houston, and Caleb’s family, including his grieving parents, Melissa and Gary Rickenbacher. Caleb was their only child—an intelligent and kindhearted young man whose future was full of promise. The bench, engraved and placed in a serene area of Deputy Darren Goforth Park, is intended as a space for reflection, awareness, and community solidarity.
A Symbol of Justice and Community Awareness
The project is also intended to raise public awareness about unsolved violent crimes and encourage ongoing dialogue about reckless driving, hit-and-run incidents, and victim support. Commissioner Ramsey emphasized that initiatives like these are part of a broader mission to create safer neighborhoods and give families a tangible way to keep their loved ones’ memories alive.
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Caleb's family describes him as a joyful, compassionate young man who lit up every room with his smile and had a deep love for others, especially those who were mistreated or overlooked. Known for his quiet generosity and willingness to help without seeking recognition, Caleb’s legacy of love lives on through his nonprofit, calebslegacyoflove.org.
“It’s hard to put into words how deeply we cherish this honor. Every family longs for their child to be remembered, and knowing our incredible son, Caleb, will be remembered as long as this tree provides shade and this bench offers rest means everything to us," said Melissa Rickenbacher, Caleb's mother. "This space gives our family a place to reflect on Caleb’s life and legacy — a place to feel close to him. We are profoundly grateful to Crime Stoppers and Precinct Three Commissioner Tom Ramsey for recognizing our son in this meaningful way.”
Community Support and How to Get Involved
Residents are encouraged to attend the ceremony on May 21 to show support and unity for those affected by violent crime. The project is open to other families seeking a public remembrance of loved ones lost to violence. Precinct 3 residents can apply for a memorial bench installation by contacting Harris County Precinct 3 or visiting the commissioner’s website.
By offering spaces of reflection and remembrance, the We Remember Memorial Project continues to be a beacon of hope for grieving families, while highlighting the ongoing need for justice and public safety awareness in Greater Houston.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
