Family holds candlelight vigil for six-year-old who died in car accident
A large crowd gathered for a candlelight vigil on Cutting and Carlson Boulevards Saturday night for six-year-old Amadeo Alvarez Jr., who died in a hit-and-run collision Wednesday evening.
Amadeo was a joyful, vibrant boy with a zest for life that touched everyone who knew him. He loved baseball, basketball, and soccer, playing constantly at school and at home, according to a GoFundMe set up to pay for funeral and medical expenses.
Amadeo’s favorite thing to do was practice sports with his dad and hang out with his teammates, according to the GoFundMe. His absence has left a void in the hearts of his family and friends that can never be filled.
Jasmine Douville, Assistant Principal at Caliber Public Schools, said she was devastated by the loss of one of her kindergarten students.
“Amadeo Alvarez Jr. was an amazing little boy who lit up the world with his smile and was destined to be a baseball star one day,” Douville said.
Richmond Police Sergeant Ben Therriault, along with members of the Richmond Police and Fire departments, attended the vigil.
“A very major collision happened here that unfortunately cost the life of a young person in the community,” Therriault said. “That is why I think you see such a large turnout. People want to repay their respects, and we want to do the same thing and support the community we work for.”
Police responded to multiple calls reporting the collision at the intersection of Cutting and Carlson Boulevards on Wednesday, April 17, at 7:27 p.m. Emergency responders reportedly transported several patients to the hospital.
The suspected driver reportedly attempted to flee but was located nearby and faces felony hit-and-run, with accompanying charges that include DUI involving alcohol and drugs causing bodily harm, manslaughter while driving under the influence of intoxicants, and hit-and-run resulting in death or bodily injury.
Accident investigators plan on presenting the case to the Contra Costa County District Attorney on Monday, said Lt. Donald Patchin. “Hopefully, the DA will make a filing decision then,” he said.
To donate to the family's GoFundMe, visit https://gofund.me/2e8d2d7b
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