Julio Nave-Giron, 46, a chef at Pepper Club in Las Vegas’ Arts District, was fatally struck by an alleged impaired driver on Dec. 6. The restaurant and his family remembered him for his warmth, humor and generosity. He is survived by his widow, Sarita Moreno, and three teenage sons — two of whom were nephews he raised. The accused, 41-year-old Rogelio Camacho, faces DUI and reckless driving charges and remained in custody with a court date set for Dec. 18.
Beloved Las Vegas Chef and Father, 46, Killed by Alleged Drunk Driver — Family, Community Mourn
News 3 Las Vegas/InstagramMemorial for Julio Nave-Giron
Julio Nave-Giron, 46, a well-known chef at Pepper Club in The English Hotel in Las Vegas' Arts District, died after being struck by an alleged impaired driver on the night of Saturday, Dec. 6. Colleagues, family and friends have shared tributes to his warmth, humor and generosity as the investigation continues.
Tributes From Family and Colleagues
Pepper Club posted a statement on Instagram on Dec. 10 mourning the loss of their teammate:
“Our team is mourning the loss of Julio, whose warmth, hard work, and generosity left a lasting impact on everyone around him. His absence will be felt deeply by his family, friends, and all of us who had the privilege of working with him.”
His widow, Sarita Moreno, told the Las Vegas Review-Journal that Nave-Giron was a "loving person" who "made everybody laugh," describing him as outgoing and a "big-hearted jokester." Their eldest son, Julio Jr., 18, told KSNV that his father was both a parent and a best friend and that he had spoken with him about 10 minutes before the crash while his father was returning home from work.
Fifteen-year-old Issac remembered a quiet, treasured moment with his dad: "Probably my most favorite memory is listening to Linkin Park as we're picking up my brother from work…very simple moment, but it has a special place in my heart." According to media reports, two of the boys were his nephews whom he raised after their mother — his younger sister — was killed; he regarded them as his sons.
GoFundMeChef Julio Nave-Giron
Nave-Giron’s mother, Elizabeth Nave, told CBS affiliate 8 News Now, "He was taken from me. They snatched him from my hands. They left a family broken." The community has rallied with condolences and memories while the family arranges funeral services and support.
Investigation And Legal Status
Law enforcement sources reported that 41-year-old Rogelio Camacho was arrested on Dec. 6 and faces charges of reckless driving and driving under the influence resulting in death. 8 News Now reported that Camacho had not yet appeared in court because of injuries sustained in the crash, but he remained in custody without bail as of Dec. 10. His next scheduled court appearance was set for Dec. 18.
Support Efforts
A GoFundMe organized by friend Adrianna Oropeza notes that Nave-Giron was the sole provider for his family and seeks funds to help cover funeral and living expenses for his widow and children. Friends, coworkers, and community members continue to share memories and offer support as the family grieves.
Details and timeline in this article are based on reports from Pepper Club’s Instagram post, the Las Vegas Review-Journal, KSNV (NBC Las Vegas), CBS affiliate 8 News Now, and other local outlets.
