Southridge Senior High community mourns football player killed in hit-and-run; suspect bonds out – WSVN 7News | Miami News, Weather, Sports
SOUTHWEST MIAMI-DADE, FLA. (WSVN) – A South Florida highschool coach opened up in regards to the lack of considered one of his gamers after, police stated, 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, pals and teammates.
Talking with 7News on Sunday, Victor Silva, the sufferer’s coach at Southridge Senior Excessive Faculty, stated 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?” stated Silva. “One thing so actual is discovering out considered one of your gamers just isn’t there anymore, realizing that a couple of hours [before the crash] he was enjoying a sport.”
The coach stated Rivera, a punter with the Southridge Spartans, was hitting his stride on and off the sector.
Sylva stated he was a beloved large brother, in addition to a respectful one who gave his all with a optimistic angle when dealing with new challenges.
“Something we did, he’d be one of many first ones after we run, at all times keen to assist out the crew,” stated Sylva.
Final Friday, the coach stated, Rivera was seemingly heading to the varsity’s weight room earlier than going to class.
“I do consider that he would get up at 5 o’clock and work out as a result of he had that drive,” stated Silva.
Miami-Dade Police stated the sufferer was jogging alongside Southwest 152nd Road when a driver jumped the curb and drove onto the sidewalk.
Investigators stated the motive force of a 2018 Volkswagen Passat rammed into Rivera.
The teenager was pronounced lifeless on the scene, one week earlier than his closing homecoming sport.
The subsequent day, police arrested Maria Rodriguez. They stated the 23-year-old driver didn’t cease or name 911.
As an alternative, police stated, the suspect drove off, leaving the highschool senior injured and alone.
“Leaving somebody there, not rendering assist, is appalling,” stated Silva.
Rivera leaves behind a number of brothers and sisters and a big, loving household.
Relations stated 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 will probably be honored through the crew’s homecoming sport, 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 desires to thank the group for his or her outpouring of assist and love for her son.
His youthful brother stated Rivera was the most effective large brother.
Rivera’s Celebration of Life Ceremony will probably be held on Saturday, Nov. 6 on the Miami Winery Church situated at 12727 SW 122 Ave. A time for the ceremony has not but been revealed however will probably be posted on the GoFundMe web page.
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