Special to the NEWS
HARLINGEN, TX—The Texas Department of Public Safety (TXDoT) is investigating a two-vehicle crash that killed a 22-year-old motorcyclist from San Benito last week.
According to TXDoT, the accident occurred at approximately 6:20 p.m. on Friday, May 15, at the intersection of San Jose Ranch Road and FM 509, just outside Harlingen’s city limits.
That’s when, according to an incident report, Ezra Andrea Duke Villafranco of San Benito was traveling on FM 509, allegedly passing vehicles in a no-passing zone while approaching the San Jose Ranch Road intersection.
A preliminary investigation revealed that a Kawasaki ER-6 motorcycle driven by Villafranco struck a Toyota Tacoma pulling a trailer on San Jose Ranch Road as the driver attempted to turn left onto FM 509.
Villafranco was taken to Valley Baptist Medical Center, where he succumbed to his injuries. The crash remains under investigation.
The driver of the Tacoma has not been identified. DPS says it’s still investigating the crash.
A GoFundMe account has been set up to support the family.
“Our hearts are completely broken as we share the tragic passing of Ezra Andrew Duke Villafranco,” according to the GoFundMe page.
“At only 22 years old, he lost his life in a tragic motorcycle accident no family ever expects to face,” according to a post on the page. “He was a proud Marine, an amazing son, and deeply loved by so many. Most importantly, he was his mother’s only child.”
It continues, “The pain and heartbreak of losing an only son is something no mother should ever have to endure. The emptiness left behind is unimaginable, and our family is trying to navigate a loss that words cannot even begin to describe. Anyone who knew him knew the love, strength, and light he brought to this world.”
“As his family navigates this painful and unexpected loss, they face the difficult task of arranging Ezra’s final farewell. Any contribution — no matter how small — would mean more than words can express. Donations will help cover funeral expenses; we want to give him a beautiful, respectful memorial service he truly deserves,” the page reads.
Anette Bernal responded, “I’m so sorry for your loss. (I’m) keeping you and your family in my thoughts and prayers during this heartbreaking time.”
Fellow serviceman Justin Cuomo wrote, “My heart is broken with you and for you over the tragic loss of a great Marine, son, and friend. We say his name with a full heart and mourn him with every breath. We remain always faithful!”
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