Family and Friends Remember Teen Killed in Crash

Family members and classmates gathered on Wednesday to remember a 13-year-old boy killed in a car wreck.

Ethan Vasquez, of Dallas, died on April 15 when officers said two men crashed into his mother’s car in the M Streets area. The teen was fatally injured and his mother, Sandy Vasquez, was severly injured. 

Vasquez attended William B. Travis Academy in Dallas where classmates said he was heavily involved in stage production and was a friend to everyone he met.

Several of Vasquez’s friends spoke at Wednesday’s memorial service, where at least 300 people were in attendance.

“Ethan really was one of the greatest kids I knew. He was always so kind, always happy and smiling. So patient,” said one student.

“I can only imagine what he would’ve accomplished here on earth. But I don’t think any of us can imagine what our little angel can do in heaven. You lit up our hearts Ethan, you lit up our stage, your presence was light and now we know you are lighting up the stages in heaven,” said another.

Sandy Vasquez was released from the hospital just hours prior to his son’s memorial service.

Victor Vasquez, the teen's father, is a police officer for Cedar Hill.

“I have no words to express the loss our family is suffering at this moment,” Victor Vasquez told the overflowing crowd at the service.

After a slide show that displayed pictures of Vasquez growing up, his father said, "This was the zany, crazy world of E. You can’t help but love him. He has an infectious laugh. His smile will melt your heart and you’ll never forget him.”

Vasquez’s funeral will be Thursday, April 24, at Lakeside Baptist Church.

Dagoberto Castanon and Rogelio Avila were arrested in Lee County, Fla., in connection to the crash. Both are currently in jail awaiting extradition to Texas. 

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