Family of Liam Cantu continues push for justice after suspect appears in court

LA QUINTA, Calif. (KESQ) - The family of Liam Cantu, a 14-year-old that was hit and killed by an alleged drunk driver last year, is continuing their calls for justice after a court hearing today.

Jose Villegas Orbe, the 47-year-old driver accused of killing Cantu, appeared in Indio court Thursday for a felony settlement conference that was pushed to a later date.

The family says it's one of many delays in the case, and they're renewing their calls for stronger measures against DUI drivers in California.

"It's hard for us to get up in the morning and come here. These days are really mentally exhausting for us," Jesus Cantu, Liam's father said.

Now, they're calling for stricter DUI laws they believe could have saved Liam.

"Other states are trying to implement a law where individuals that have an alcohol drinking problem, they're trying to restrict their driver's license. Put something on there saying that they're not allowed to purchase alcohol. I think if they did that here, that might have saved my son's life," Cantu said.

Since his death, Liam has been memorialized by his high school, at the White House and will be honored at the Riverside County court house in April.

His parents say it's a reminder of his presence, and caution to others.

"I see people running red lights every single day and just slow down. You don't need to hurry to get somewhere. We went from three practices to two practices a week, tournaments on the weekends. Then to nothing," his father said.