[Updated: Thu., July 3, 2025, 2:55pm]
Joseph Isaac Medina, 32, founder of the popular Birria Boyz food truck, died on Wednesday afternoon after the 2018 Chevrolet truck he was driving went off the road on West Ocean Avenue near Douglass Avenue just outside Lompoc. No passengers were in the truck, and no other vehicles were hit when the vehicle left the road and flipped over, coming to rest in a concrete irrigation canal.
“This is a tragic day for the family and the community,” said Buellton Area Commander Lieutenant Jason Bronson in a press release on Wednesday. “Our officers were at the crash scene with many of those family members, and I hope our investigation can provide some closure.”
CHP San Luis Obispo Communication Center got a call at 12:21 p.m. on July 2 informing them of the incident. Buellton CHP officers, Santa Barbara Sheriff’s Office deputies, Santa Barbara County Fire and Lompoc City Fire personnel all responded to the crash. CHP Buellton Area investigators are currently conducting an investigation to determine the cause.
According to a GoFundMe post from Medina’s family, “He was a man full of life, laughter, and love known for his big smile, contagious energy, and golden heart. He was sarcastic and funny, but also deeply kind, generous, and hardworking.”
Sparked by his passion for food and his community, Medina started The Birria Boyz food truck back in 2021, serving the Central Coast from San Luis Obispo to Santa Barbara. “Whether you were a customer, friend, or stranger, Joe welcomed you into his circle with open arms,” according to his loved ones.
“Big Joe” leaves behind his partner, Cassie Jennings, and their two daughters, Malia and Aleya. Medina was also a step-father to Franco Jr., Joe, and Adrian, and “he loved all five kids fiercely and unconditionally.” A GoFundMe from the family is asking for donations to go toward funeral expenses and immediate financial needs. As of Thursday afternoon, it had raised more than $7,000 toward its $50,000 goal.
