A 14-year-old student and football player was killed in Fresno, California, while riding an e-scooter to practice for his upcoming 15th birthday. The incident occurred just before 6 p.m. on a Friday, when the teen, identified as Robert Peele, was struck by a white sedan near Sunnyside High School.
Peele was taken to a local hospital in critical condition but later died from his injuries. Police are continuing to investigate the circumstances of the crash. The driver of the vehicle remained at the scene.
Community Memorial
Hundreds of mourners gathered on the football field at Sunnyside High School on Wednesday evening to honor Peele. During the ceremony, attendees released balloons into the sky as a tribute to the young athlete. Robert's mother, Nicole, expressed gratitude for the community's support, stating, "All this love and support that we're getting right now, this is what's really keeping us going." The family affectionately nicknamed Robert "Budda."
Robert's older brother, Sammie Little, also shared that the family is devastated by the loss. His football coach, Giovanni Guzman of Sunnyside Varsity, was among those who rushed to the scene after learning of the collision. "We had to come back to practice because the boys didn’t know about it," Guzman said.
Circumstances of the Crash
According to his mother, Robert Peele had limited experience operating an e-scooter, having only ridden one twice before the incident. He was not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash, which occurred during a period of high summer temperatures. The e-scooter he was riding was not his own.
Coach Guzman reflected on the tragedy, lamenting the loss of a young life with unfulfilled potential. "He'll never get to step onto the field," Guzman said. "I feel like it's our responsibility and our duty to live through him." Peele's teammates reportedly took a knee in prayer upon hearing the news of the crash.
His friend, Rico Brown, stayed by Peele's side in the hospital during his final days, sharing messages of love and support. "His last days on earth I spent with him in the hospital. I stayed overnight with him," Brown said.