DANA POINT, Calif. — On a rainy Thursday evening, community members gathered at Doheny State Beach to hold a candlelight vigil for 13-year-old Luis Adrian Morales-Pacheco, who tragically lost his life in a hit-and-run incident earlier that week. The gathering reflected the immense love and support of friends, family, and local residents mourning the loss of a young boy with a bright future.
As the candles flickered in the dim light, dozens of attendees, including parents, classmates, and local officials, came together to honor Luis. Many wore blue, a color that held special significance for the beloved middle school student from Niguel Hills.
Jeannie Scharetg, a dedicated member of the school’s Parent-Teacher Association, described Luis as “a well-rounded, sweet boy.” His classmates recalled joyful moments shared during lunch breaks, reminiscing about his excitement for the future and dreams of attending high school with friends and family.
Luis’s life was cut short on the morning of the incident when he was struck by a vehicle while walking near Park Lantern and Dana Point Harbor Drive. The driver, identified as 59-year-old Bradley Gene Funk, reportedly left the scene after the crash, leading to a swift response from law enforcement. Funk has been charged with murder and hit-and-run causing death, and he is also suspected of operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol.
Authorities revealed that Funk has a disturbing criminal history, including previous DUI arrests. This alarming background raised questions about public safety and accountability on the roads.
In response to the tragedy, Luis’s family has set up a fundraiser to assist with funeral expenses. The GoFundMe page has garnered support from the local community, which has rallied around the family in this difficult time. “I’m so proud of this community,” Scharetg noted, emphasizing the importance of solidarity and support as they navigate their grief.
The tragic loss has not only affected Luis’s family but has also reverberated through the local school and the wider community, reminding everyone of the fragility of life and the need for compassion. As the vigil continued, attendees shared stories, prayed for healing, and committed to ensuring that Luis’s memory would live on in their hearts.