Tucson family seeks help after woman injured | Crime

TUCSON, Ariz. (KVOA) – A family in Tucson is asking for the community’s help after a woman was hurt in an alleged domestic violence situation.

It happened on February 3, 2026 when the family says 24-year-old Gerardo Reyes backed his car into 22-year-old Marissa Portugal and dragged her.

Unfortunately, her condition is dire. Marissa’s sister, Brianna Portugal, was present during the incident. She recounted the moment her sister was struck.

“And my sister’s body just got taken under the car. He was backing out so fast, I was screaming and yelling,” Portugal said.

Marissa remains hospitalized, relying on a ventilator with a challenging journey ahead.

Ruby Ibarra, Marissa’s mother, shared the severity of her daughter’s condition.

“It’s a 99.9% chance that Marissa will never walk again. Marissa will stay in bed for the rest of her life. She will need a feeding tube and she will be on a ventilator. The left side of her brain isn’t functioning at all,” Ibarra said.

Isabel Mariscal, Marissa’s cousin, recently faced the loss of her brother and now faces another family tragedy. She described Marissa’s loving nature.

“She made friends everywhere she went. She had such a good personality, such a kind personality and she was just such a good, great, genuine person and I don’t understand why someone can do such an evil thing to her,” Mariscal said.

The family has set up a GoFundMe to assist with Marissa’s medical expenses.

“Anything helps. With her healthcare and with my nephews,” Portugal said.

In a recent court appearance, Reyes stated he was unaware of anyone behind his vehicle and did not know he was dragging someone. His next court date is set for February 13.