A promising high school football player lost his life just a day shy of his 15th birthday while riding his electric scooter to practice.
On Wednesday evening, a large crowd gathered at the football field of Sunnyside High School in Fresno to honor Robert Peel, who was tragically hit by a sedan near the school shortly before 6 p.m. last Friday.
Robert was rushed to the hospital in critical condition but ultimately succumbed to his injuries. Authorities are currently looking into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
During the memorial service, mourners released balloons into the sky in honor of the young athlete.
“It’s touching to see so many people coming together to show their love for him,” said Robert’s mother, Nicole.
Often affectionately referred to as “Buddha” by his family, Robert was beloved by many.
His uncle, Sammy Little, expressed the family’s heartbreak, stating, “The outpouring of love and support is what’s helping us through this tough time.”
The driver of the sedan remained at the scene after the incident.
Robert’s mother noted that he was not wearing a helmet, emphasizing that he had only recently started using the scooter. “He had only been on it a couple of times. It wasn’t even his,” she remarked.
Upon hearing about the accident, Robert’s football coach rushed to the site, realizing the gravity of the situation.
Guzman expressed sorrow over the young athlete’s untimely death. “He never got the chance to experience the things that kids should—like putting on a helmet, gearing up, and running onto the field with the crowd cheering. It’s our duty to keep his spirit alive,” he said.
After learning of the tragedy, Robert’s teammates took a moment to kneel in prayer.
A close friend, Rico Brown, stayed at Robert’s side as he battled for his life in the hospital. “I spent his last moments with him, even staying overnight,” Rico recalled. “I made sure to tell him how much he was loved by everyone.”
