GoFundMe Set Up For Middletown Teen's Family After Fatal Christmas Crash In Hartford

HARTFORD/MIDDLETOWN, CT — A friend of the family of the 14-year-old teen killed in a Christmas Day crash in Hartford has set up a GoFundMe page to help the family with funeral expenses.

According to the page, which was set up by Middletown resident Shanika Bunch, the victim in last week's fatal was identified as Malachi James, 14.

James was riding with family, reportedly coming home from a family Christmas gathering last Thursday, when the vehicle was struck head-on by a Tesla Cybertruck at 9:18 p.m. on Cornwall Street.

Several in the Toyota Camry that James was riding in were injured, with the teen pronounced dead at an area hospital.

The driver of the Tesla fled the vehicle, with police still investigating the crash and searching for the fleeing suspect.

"A day meant for love, joy, and celebration became a day of unimaginable heartbreak. There are no words that can fully express the pain our family is experiencing," wrote Bunch.

She said Malachi was "deeply loved, and brought light, laughter, and meaning to everyone who knew him."

Bunch said the GoFundMe page was set up to support his family with funeral and memorial costs, with a $16,000 goal.

"His life was taken far too soon, and our hearts are shattered trying to understand a world without him. To know him was to love him," wrote Bunch.

"He was a shining light everywhere he went. As we grieve this devastating loss, we are also faced with unexpected expenses and the overwhelming reality of laying our beloved Malachi to rest."

To donate to the Malachi James Family GoFundMe page, click on this link.

From Dec. 26: 'Teen Killed As Toyota, Tesla Truck Crash In Hartford On Christmas: Police'