New York Boy, 12, Is Killed on His Way to Do Homework with Friends: 'Devastated and in Pieces'

Tears ran down one devastated father's face as he recalled an incident that changed his life forever. He faced a fate no parent should—it left him and the rest of his family heartbroken.

Tomas Molina was a bright youngster with the rest of his life ahead of him. He was hardworking, and it was highly likely that he would achieve great things in the future. The 12-year-old from West Hempstead, Long Island, New York, was close to his dad.

The duo even had the same name and were inseparable, spending as much time together as possible. Tomas' dad never imagined that his efforts to try and keep his son safe would fail and have heart-shattering consequences.

The Father Tried to Protect His Son

On an ordinary Sunday morning on October 2, 2022, Tomas desperately wanted to go to work with his dad. The youngster looked up to him and was proud to be his son.

However, the dad worked in construction and was wary about bringing his son along. There were many occupational hazards, so Tomas' father decided his precious child should stay home.

Tragedy Struck Unexpectedly

Tomas' dad said goodbye as he did every day, unaware that tragedy was coming. The father's worst nightmare became a reality while he was at work.

Tomas got permission from his mother to work on a school project at his friend's house. She agreed, likely happy to see her son devoting time to his studies. Sadly, it was the last time she saw her son alive.

While Tomas was walking to his friend's home, he met his untimely death. He was crossing the street in his West Hempstead neighborhood when a car struck him. The youngster was rushed to the hospital, eventually passing away due to his injuries.

He Was a Clever and Kind Boy

The dad was in pieces after losing his namesake. He dreamed of seeing his child achieve goals and make the world a better place. Tragically it was not meant to be.

The West Hempstead superintendent sent their thoughts and prayers to the family who had lost their precious son. They spoke about the youngster's potential that was thwarted unexpectedly and unfairly in a matter of seconds, adding:

"Tomas was heading towards the honor roll. Tomas had a huge smile and was always willing to lend a hand to a classmate."

The Family Was Shattered

Tomas' dad expressed the heartbreak among family members, saying it was very hard on them because they were a close-knit group.

Neighbors who lived near the accident scene said crashes and incidents were not unusual. Hopefully, Tomas' passing was not in vain, and something will be done to prevent future tragedies.

Support for the Boy's Loved Ones

Emily Aghabi started a GoFundMe page on behalf of the grieving family. She sympathized with them and asked the online community to help wherever possible. She stated:

"I can't even imagine how they are feeling and I would like to help them. Please West Hempstead let's help this family so they can lay their baby boy to rest."

The Online Response

Netizens were heartbroken, and many sympathized with Tomas' loved ones. Users offered their condolences and asked God to grant the family strength to continue:

"Praying for the family. I felt so bad when I saw the dad in tears. Rest in peace young man."

- (William Doepper) October 4, 2022

"RIP little angel. People should stop [distracted] driving and pay attention behind the wheel of a car."

- (Michael Tedeschi) October 4, 2022

"Do you have any idea how painful this time is for these parents? Losing a loved one is never simple to deal with. My condolences to the family. This child left us far too young."

- (Roodly Apollon) October 4, 2022

"I cannot imagine ... Stunned [and] shocked. I'm so sorry this happened."

- (Village Streetwear) October 4, 2022

Driving attentively and carefully is crucial and can save a life. One minor distraction is enough to cause an irrevocable tragedy that leaves families devastated forever. May this tragic story encourage others to focus while they are behind the wheel.

We send our heartfelt condolences to everyone who knew this precious boy. He was taken too soon and will be missed. RIP, angel.

Click here for a story about a little boy on his way to school. The eight-year-old from San Jose, California, was full of life and walked carefully over a crosswalk, never imagining that everything would change in a matter of seconds.