The family of the 14-year-old who tragically lost his life in a minibike collision in the Lavilla neighborhood is grappling with devastation, describing the situation as “unreal.”
Marquel Kearse Jr. and his 13-year-old companion were riding a minibike on Thursday when they collided with a dump truck on South Myrtle Avenue. Surveillance footage from a nearby business captured the heart-wrenching incident.
Kennethia Mott, Kearse’s aunt residing in Alabama, expressed the family’s profound grief to News4JAX, describing him as “an easygoing kid, very manageable, very respectable. And it’s just a tragic loss.” The family is navigating the challenging process of making arrangements, with Kearse’s mother particularly distraught. Mott emphasized their efforts to take each moment and day as it comes.
The surveillance video reveals the dump truck traveling north on Myrtle Avenue. As it turns right, a minibike approaches from the right side, appearing to slow down before colliding with the truck. Both teens were thrown off the minibike and subsequently transported to the hospital for medical attention.
Marquel Kearse, the father of the deceased, shared a heartfelt message directed at the youth community, urging caution while operating motorcycles, dirt bikes, or any similar vehicles. He emphasized the importance of wearing helmets and staying vigilant at intersections.
Mott fondly recalled her nephew’s interests, mentioning his love for basketball, music, and riding minibikes. “Overall, he was just what a typical 14-year-old loved to do, be a kid,” she said.
In an effort to alleviate funeral costs, the family has initiated a GoFundMe campaign to seek community support.