PHOENIX - Heartache and grief have struck the family and friends of a Phoenix teen killed in an apparent street racing crash.
Jesus Fabian Aguilar was one of three young men involved.
Phoenix police say the impact ejected him and his friend, Jessie Alberto Worth, before the car burst into flames.
Investigators say speed appears to be a major factor in the crash that claimed three lives.
Jesus Aguilar was the driver of one of the cars that crashed into a tree near Central and Northern avenues. It’s where people have been stopping by, tearfully, all day long.
Monday night, candles illuminated part of the crash site.
“Obviously he’s no longer with us anymore … we’re just trying to keep our family together because of this accident he was involved with, him and his friends,” said Gerardo Aguilar, 18-year-old Jesus Aguilar’s uncle, holding back tears.
“It’s just difficult to see that tree, that that was his resting place,” he said.
Loved ones are completely devastated.
“That tree is lit up in nothing but black dust,” said Gerardo.
Jesus’ uncle is thankful knowing a Good Samaritan tried to help pull him out of the car.
“That way I can tell my sister that he was still breathing when they pulled him out from the car, that he did not pass away in that burning car,” he said.
But he still can’t believe his nephew is gone. Gerardo said Jesus got the car as a graduation gift.
Detectives are still investigating the apparent street racing crash. Meanwhile, the reality is still sinking in for Jesus’ friends, one who was like a brother to him.
“Watch out for each other and make sure that stuff like this doesn’t actually happen, because how I feel and our family feels -- I wouldn’t wish that on anybody is the whole world,” said Orion Johnson, who has been friends with Jesus since fifth grade.
“In a split second, you can change your family’s life, your own life,” Gerardo said.
Marcos Aguayo Aguilar was driving the other car that hit a tree. He later died at the hospital.
Police told 12 News the three were not wearing seatbelts.