LOS ANGELES (KABC) — A family is grieving the death of a 31-year-old father of three who was killed in a crash in Boyle Heights early Thursday morning.
Marco Rodriguez said he is struggling to process the death of his brother, Guillermo Rodriguez.
“I just couldn’t believe it because I had seen him just a few hours ago,” Marco said.
Marco said his brother had recently turned 31.
When asked how the family was coping with the loss, Marco said they were devastated.
“My family is at a loss for words. My parents can’t believe it,” he said.
According to the California Highway Patrol, the crash occurred just after 2 a.m. Thursday. Authorities said a white Kia Optima flew off the 5 Freeway in Boyle Heights, became wedged beneath an overpass and landed in an embankment near the 10 Freeway.
CHP said the vehicle was traveling at a high rate of speed before the crash.
Marco said Guillermo was riding in the passenger seat of the Kia, while their uncle was driving. Guillermo was pronounced dead at the scene, and authorities arrested the driver on suspicion of driving under the influence.
In the aftermath of the crash, Marco urged others not to drink and drive.
Marco described his brother as a dedicated father who worked hard to provide for his family. He said Guillermo leaves behind his wife and three children, ages 4, 8 and 9.
“He was a good father to his kids. He didn’t deserve this. Our parents taught us to not have any addictions in life, and the way he left us was not the right way for him to depart from this world.”
Marco said he and his brother worked together and that their company is helping raise money for funeral expenses.
A GoFundMe campaign has been established to assist the family.
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