A man charged in connection with a drunk driving crash in Escondido that killed a 13-year-old boy pleaded guilty Thursday, just as the case was set to go to trial.

Alexander Tito Oroz, 22, entered guilty pleas to gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, DUI causing injury, and driving under the influence while under 21. Oroz was 20 years old at the time of the April 27, 2024, crash. He is expected to be sentenced next month to 12 years and eight months in state prison.

The crash occurred around 10 p.m. at the intersection of North Broadway and Country Club Lane in Escondido. According to Deputy District Attorney Min Yoon, Oroz's vehicle was traveling between 91 and 119 miles per hour in a posted 40 mph zone.

The victim, 13-year-old Rodrigo Tapia Jr., was a student at Quantum Academy in Escondido. He was the sibling of Oroz's girlfriend and was riding in Oroz's car at the time of the crash. A second passenger, the victim's sister, also sustained injuries, according to family members.

The case was prosecuted by the San Diego County District Attorney's Office. Sentencing is expected next month.