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3 teens, including 13-year-old, ID’d in fatal Apopka rollover crash

6 teens were in pickup truck that crashed, troopers say

APOPKA, Fla. – Three teens, including a 13-year-old boy, who were killed in a rollover Apopka crash early Sunday have been identified.

The Florida Highway Patrol identified the victims as Enrique Rodriguez Sabas and Julio Valdez Lopez, both 17, and 13-year-old Leyner Velazquez.

Enrique Rodriguez Sabas (left), Julio Valdez Lopez (middle) and Leyner Velazquez (right). (GoFundMe)

The boys were traveling in a 2020 Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck with three other teens around 1:30 a.m. Sunday when the vehicle ran off Welch Road near Wekiwa Drive, hit a tree, and overturned, troopers said.

[VIDEO: 3 killed in Apopka pickup rollover crash involving only teens, troopers say]

The three other teens — the 17-year-old driver, a 15-year-old boy and a 14-year-old boy — were taken to the hospital with serious injuries.

Four of the teens were not wearing seatbelts, including two of the boys who died, according to a crash report.

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A GoFundMe for Enrique describes the teen as a “kind and outgoing person” with “a big heart.” To donate, click here.

Julio was described as a “vivid young man” who always helped take care of his mother, a GoFundMe described. Click here to donate.

Another GoFundMe for Leyner’s family aims to help the unexpected costs of funeral arrangements and give him a farewell he deserves. Click here to donate.

Orange County Public Schools Superintendent Maria Vazquez released a statement on the crash:

I am heartbroken by the tragic loss of three students from our Apopka community following a devastating car accident this past weekend. This is an unimaginable loss, and our hearts go out to the families, friends, and loved ones of these young individuals.

The sudden passing of a young life is deeply painful and leaves a lasting impact on all of us. During this incredibly difficult time, we remain committed to supporting our students, staff, and families as they grieve. Counselors and support staff will be available at our schools to provide comfort and assistance to anyone in need.

Sadly, three other students were also injured in the crash. We are keeping them in our thoughts and praying for their full recovery.

Please continue to hold all of the families affected, as well as the Apopka High School and Kelly Park School communities, in your hearts as they navigate this profound sorrow. Together, we will honor the memory of those we lost and support one another with compassion and care.

Orange County Public Schools said on Monday that families at Apopka High School and Kelly Park School were notified of the crash and that counselors are available on both campuses for students and staff.

An investigation is ongoing.


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