Lawrenceville, GA – A family in Lawrenceville is grieving the loss of 6-year-old Abel Aquino-Torres, who was fatally struck by a vehicle outside his home on Saturday, Nov. 15, shortly after returning from a birthday celebration.
The tragic incident occurred around 9:20 p.m., when Abel went out for a brief bike ride in the neighborhood. His father, Juan Torres, told WSB-TV that he initially thought it was too late for Abel to go out, but eventually agreed to let him take one lap. Before Abel could cross the road, a fast-moving vehicle hit him in the dark.
A Father’s Grief and a Mother’s Warning
Abel was the youngest of five children and the only son in the family. His father remembered him fondly, sharing with 11 Alive:
“He was my partner. He was my mini me.”
Abel’s mother, Karina Aquino, described the moments leading up to the crash, telling WSB-TV that the car “was going very fast” and that darkness made visibility difficult.
The family says their lives changed instantly.
“My world stopped,” Juan said. “I feel the emptiness because my child is no more here.”
Karina urged drivers to act responsibly:
“Tell everybody to be more careful. A car is also a weapon.”
A Family Holding On to Faith
Despite their overwhelming grief, Abel’s parents say they are leaning on their faith and choosing forgiveness.
“God gives, and he takes,” Karina said. “There is a purpose for everything.”
She told WSB-TV they even forgive the driver involved:
“We believe in forgiveness and in mercy, which is what Jesus would have done.”
Karina added that while their faith brings them comfort, the emotional pain is heavy:
“The spiritual side of us is at peace because we know he’s in a good place… but the human, the flesh in us, misses him deeply.”
Community Support and Ongoing Investigation
Abel’s uncle has created a GoFundMe page to help the family cover funeral expenses. The fundraiser describes Abel as a joyful, faith-filled boy who “brought light everywhere he went” and had “the purest heart.”
His four sisters — Ariana, Briana, Gracie, and Sarahi — are also mourning the loss, with the family saying their world has been “shattered.”
Police say the investigation remains open. According to the Gwinnett County Police Department, as reported by 11 Alive, no charges have been filed at this time.
The Dangers of Nighttime Residential Driving
Incidents like this highlight the increased risks of driving in residential areas after dark. Reduced visibility, faster-than-expected traffic, and children being near roadways can quickly create dangerous situations. Road-safety advocates emphasize:
- Slowing down when entering neighborhood streets
- Watching for children near curbs, driveways, or parked cars
- Avoiding distractions and keeping headlights on full illumination when appropriate
Community Grief and Road Safety Awareness
For many families, this tragedy is a reminder of how quickly life can change. The Torres family hopes Abel’s story encourages drivers to be more cautious, especially in neighborhoods with children.
As the investigation continues, the Lawrenceville community has gathered around the family, offering prayers, donations, and emotional support during their unimaginable loss.
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