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SOUTHWEST MIAMI-DADE, FLA. (WSVN) – A South Florida highschool coach opened up in regards to the lack of one in all his gamers after, police mentioned, he was fatally struck by a driver who fled the scene.
The information of the crash that took the lifetime of 17-year-old Justin Rivera in Southwest Miami-Dade, Friday morning, dealt a heavy blow to members of the family, buddies and teammates.
Talking with 7News on Sunday, Victor Silva, the sufferer’s coach at Southridge Senior Excessive Faculty, mentioned the teenager by no means missed a observe.
“It’s heartbreaking. Disbelief was one of many first issues that got here to my thoughts, like getting kicked within the intestine, you already know?” mentioned Silva. “One thing so actual is discovering out one in all your gamers shouldn’t be there anymore, realizing that a number of hours [before the crash] he was taking part in a recreation.”
The coach mentioned Rivera, a punter with the Southridge Spartans, was hitting his stride on and off the sphere.
Sylva mentioned he was a beloved huge brother, in addition to a respectful one that gave his all with a optimistic perspective when dealing with new challenges.
“Something we did, he’d be one of many first ones once we run, at all times prepared to assist out the group,” mentioned Sylva.
Final Friday, the coach mentioned, Rivera was doubtless heading to the varsity’s weight room earlier than going to class.
“I do imagine that he would get up at 5 o’clock and work out as a result of he had that drive,” mentioned Silva.
Miami-Dade Police mentioned the sufferer was jogging alongside Southwest 152nd Avenue when a driver jumped the curb and drove onto the sidewalk.
Investigators mentioned the motive force of a 2018 Volkswagen Passat rammed into Rivera.
The teenager was pronounced lifeless on the scene, one week earlier than his ultimate homecoming recreation.
The subsequent day, police arrested Maria Rodriguez. They mentioned the 23-year-old driver didn’t cease or name 911.
As an alternative, police mentioned, the suspect drove off, leaving the highschool senior injured and alone.
“Leaving somebody there, not rendering help, is appalling,” mentioned Silva.
Rivera leaves behind a number of brothers and sisters and a big, loving household.
Relations mentioned they’re praying for justice however are already assured Rivera is in a greater place.
Rodriguez bonded out of jail hours after her arrest.
Rivera can be honored through the group’s homecoming recreation, Friday evening.
A GoFundMe web page has been created for his household to assist with funeral bills. If you need to make a donation, click on here.
Rivera’s mom advised 7News she needs to thank the neighborhood for his or her outpouring of assist and love for her son.
His youthful brother mentioned Rivera was the perfect huge brother.
Rivera’s Celebration of Life Ceremony can be held on Saturday, Nov. 6 on the Miami Winery Church positioned at 12727 SW 122 Ave. A time for the ceremony has not but been revealed however can be posted on the GoFundMe web page.
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