SWFL.io - Local NewsTwo deadly crashes on Lake Trafford Road in Immokalee within five days claimed the lives of two bicyclists, leaving their families mourning and calling for safer driving.
Horacio Espinoza Perez Jr., 18, died on April 19 after an SUV hit him while he was riding a minibike near Lake Trafford Road and Palm Drive.
His sister, Kayla Espinoza, said, "I'm really hurt. I'm still really hurt. But I'm trying to stay strong, just like for my parents and my other siblings."
A memorial with flowers, photos, crosses, and memories now marks the site of the crash, just steps from Espinoza Perez's home. Dozens gathered Wednesday to remember him. Guadalupe Gonzalez, his girlfriend, said, "He was loving. He cared for everyone. He would help anyone."
Espinoza Perez's family is urging drivers to be more cautious, especially after another fatal crash occurred just days later on the same road. "Whatever we could do to calm it down because it's really bad on this street," Kayla Espinoza said.
On April 24, Collier County deputies and Florida Highway Patrol responded to another crash at the intersection of Lake Trafford Road and North 19th Street. Investigators said 63-year-old Silvino Aguirre was riding a bicycle when he was struck by a car. A GoFundMe fundraising page by the family described Aguirre as a devoted farmworker and a beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend.
Family and friends of both victims are sending a message to drivers. "I just hope every time someone drives by, they drive by with caution. And when they drive by, they remember it as my brother. Like this is his stop sign." Kayla Espinoza said.
FHP is investigating both crashes, while neighbors hope drivers will pay more attention to pedestrian safety.
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