In Loving Memory of Enrique Rodriguez Sabas (17) Julio Lopez (17) and Leyner Velasquez (13)
The community of Apopka, Florida, is grieving a devastating tragedy that occurred early Sunday morning, November 9, 2025. A rollover crash claimed the lives of three young boys — 17-year-old Enrique Rodriguez Sabas, 17-year-old Julio Lopez, and 13-year-old Leyner Velasquez.
What began as what should have been an ordinary night ended in heartbreak, leaving families shattered, friends in disbelief, and an entire community mourning the loss of three bright lives taken far too soon.
A Community in Shock and Grief
The news spread quickly across Apopka — text messages, phone calls, and social media posts filled with tears, confusion, and disbelief. These were boys who were known, loved, seen in school hallways, on sports fields, in neighborhoods, and among circles of friends who now find themselves grieving in silence and tears.
Vigils are forming. Candles are being lit. People are gathering not just to mourn, but to lean on one another — because this is the kind of loss that no one can carry alone.
Remembering Enrique Rodriguez Sabas
Enrique was a young man full of promise — thoughtful, kind, and deeply loved by those around him. Friends describe him as someone who could brighten the day with a joke or a smile. He had dreams for his future, plans he was just beginning to shape, and a heart full of loyalty to his family and friends.
He was more than just a student — he was a son, a brother, a friend, and a young person whose presence made the world feel more full of hope.
Remembering Julio Lopez
Julio, like Enrique, was only 17 — standing at the doorway of adulthood. He was described as warm, outgoing, and spirited, someone who didn’t hesitate to stand by the people he cared about. He loved deeply, lived fully, and brought laughter into the lives of those fortunate enough to know him.
Julio had dreams of his own — dreams that now remain in the hearts of the people who loved him. His loss leaves behind a silence no words can describe.
Remembering Leyner Velasquez
At only 13 years old, Leyner was the youngest of the three — a child with a bright smile, quick laughter, and a life just beginning to unfold. He was playful, loving, and full of curiosity. His absence is especially heartbreaking because the world never got to see the full boy he was growing into — or the man he might have become.
His family now holds his memory with a grief that is deep and indescribable.
Three Lives, One Shared Loss
Though each young man had his own story, dreams, and journey, they are now forever connected in memory and love.
Their families will forever remember their smiles.
Their friends will forever remember their presence.
Their community will forever feel the impact of their absence.
This tragedy reminds everyone how fragile life truly is — how quickly it can change, and how deeply love can hurt when it is interrupted too soon.
Holding One Another in the Days Ahead
In moments like this, words feel small. The families of Enrique, Julio, and Leyner now face a long road of grief and healing — a road no parent, sibling, or friend should ever have to travel.
But they will not walk it alone.
The Apopka community has already begun to come together — offering prayers, support, meals, candles, hugs, and simply presence. Sometimes love speaks loudest in quiet, shared silence.
We Remember Them
Enrique — your kindness lives on in those who loved you.
Julio — your laughter echoes in the hearts you touched.
Leyner — your innocence and joy will never be forgotten.
Three lives gone far too soon — but three lights that will continue to shine in memory, in spirit, and in love.
Rest in Peace Enrique, Julio, and Leyner.
May your souls find peace, and may your families and community find strength in each other in the days to come.
