Future Marine killed in hit-and-run, Texas cops say. ‘His life was just beginning’

The body of an 18-year-old set to join the Marines was discovered in a ditch hours after he was struck by a hit-and-run driver, Texas cops say.

Jacob Matthew Lopez, who was riding a bike Sunday, May 7, in San Antonio, was struck and run over, according to the San Antonio Police Department and Bexar County Medical Examiner’s Office.

He was thrown into a drainage ditch, and it wasn’t until the next morning when a passing motorist discovered him, police said. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police have not located the driver who struck Lopez.

Lopez, according to a GoFundMe, was one month away from graduating high school and joining the Marines.

“He had a suit ready for his Marine ball and his graduation and was looking forward to meeting new people and seeing the world,” the GoFundMe says. “He brought life and energy wherever he went, and for 18 years he persevered through exceptionally difficult circumstances most children fortunately do not go through.”

Lopez attended South San Antonio High School, KENS reported. Fabian Rocha, who described Lopez as a son to him, said the 18-year-old worked at a Whataburger near the crash scene, according to KENS.

Others remembered Lopez as an “outstanding individual with the willingness to succeed.”

“His life was just beginning and we hope all those that were fortunate enough to come into contact with him remember his positivity and wise words he was gracious enough to bestow upon all who would listen,” the GoFundMe says.

This story was originally published May 11, 2023 at 10:20 AM with the headline "Future Marine killed in hit-and-run, Texas cops say. ‘His life was just beginning’."