CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — A milestone day that is usually filled with pride and laughter turned tragic early Friday morning in San Diego, Texas.
Alexander Guerra, 18, a San Diego High School senior, was killed in a car crash Friday, hours before he was set to graduate, according to the Alice Echo News-Journal.
Another student, Louis Pena, 18, was arrested after the crash on intoxication manslaughter charges after admitting to authorities he had been drinking and driving, the Echo-News reports. He was released on bond Friday around 11 a.m.
The two students were in an F-250 on FM 1554 when the driver, identified as Pena, failed to maintain his lane, went into a ditch, lost control and struck a fence, Sgt. Guadalupe Casarez with Texas DPS told the Echo-News.
The district posted to their social media page Friday that they "are saddened about the passing of our beloved senior student today. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family."
The district decided to proceed with the graduation ceremony this evening at 8 p.m. The student will be honored at the ceremony, officials from the district said.
Guerra's picture, along with his cap and gown were carried into the stadium to honor his memory.
Students and faculty were present to share in his memory and speak on his character.
"I want to first recognize and talk about Alex Guerra, our classmate going on 14 years. Alex, AKA burger, was someone who was friends with everyone. There was never a dull moment when you were with him," said one student who gave remarks on Guerra during the graduation ceremony.
There was also a moment of silence to honor Guerra. But as students walked the stage, Guerra's name was also called -- and the crowd showed their unyielding support as a classmate walked his framed picture across the stage.
There were over 70 graduates recognized at the ceremony.
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