In the heart of Apopka, Florida, a community mourns the tragic loss of three young lives following a devastating accident early Sunday morning. The crash, which occurred along East Welch Road, has left families and friends grappling with an immense sense of grief.
According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the incident took place at approximately 1:30 a.m. near Wekiva Drive. The pickup truck, carrying the teenagers, collided with a tree as it navigated a curve, leading to the fatal outcome.
Authorities have identified the deceased as 17-year-olds Enrique Sabas and Julio Lopez, alongside 13-year-old Leyner Velazquez. Each of these young lives was cut tragically short, leaving a void that resonates deeply within the community.
In addition to the fatalities, three other teens, aged 17, 15, and 14, were in the vehicle and sustained serious injuries. These survivors now face a journey of recovery, both physically and emotionally, as the community rallies around them.
In a poignant display of solidarity and remembrance, over 100 individuals gathered on Monday night at the site of the crash. The vigil saw mourners bringing flowers, balloons, and candles, creating a solemn tribute to the lives lost and offering comfort to their families.
On Monday night, more than 100 people gathered near the crash site for a vigil honoring the victims. Mourners brought flowers, balloons, and candles.
“I’m trying to come here and bring as much peace as I can to anybody out there that is hurting,” said Christian Gutierrez, a classmate of Lopez. “It shows a lot that people care. People have the heart to show empathy for other people.”
[VIDEO: 3 teens, including 13-year-old, ID’d in fatal Apopka rollover crash]
The mother of Enrique Sabas was among those at the vigil, breaking down in tears as friends and classmates offered comfort.
Inside Apopka High School, grief counselors were available Monday to support students.
“For somebody who did go to school today, we had the media center the whole day with counselors,” said Lydiani Cruz, a classmate. “It was a lot of people that came in, some in groups, others privately. Everyone’s hurting.”
Friends described Lopez as kind and generous.
“He’s a person with a big heart and a lot of sincerity,” one classmate said. “He tends to care about others even if he doesn’t know them.”
FHP said the crash remains under investigation.
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