'Extraordinary Young Man': LI Fundraises For Family Of Beloved Teen Killed In Crash

WEST BABYLON, NY — Friends and family of a Long Island teenager are in mourning the day after his tragic death.

Robert "RJ" Buerkle, 17, of West Babylon, died Tuesday afternoon after a pickup truck crashed into him while he was riding his motorcycle in Babylon.

Victor Hansen, 84, of Babylon, was driving a 2022 Chevrolet pickup truck on Tappan Avenue when he turned onto West Main Street and struck Buerkle, who was riding 2003 Suzuki around 3:08 p.m., Suffolk police said.

Buerkle was transported to Good Samaritan Hospital Medical Center in West Islip where he was pronounced dead, police said.

As his mother and siblings face a life without RJ, the community is coming together to help them with a GoFundMe organized by RJ's cousin, Samantha Tonn.

On the fundraiser page, Tonn wrote: "It is with broken hearts that we share the sudden and tragic passing of RJ, our beloved cousin, son, brother, and friend. RJ was only 17 years old when his life was taken far too soon

"RJ was an extraordinary young man. He lit up every room with his smile and had a way of making everyone around him feel seen and loved. He was smart, kind, and always willing to lend a hand. If something was broken, RJ could fix it. If someone was hurting, RJ could make them laugh. His presence was a gift to all of us, and the world is dimmer without him.

"We are raising money to support his mom (our aunt), and his siblings (our cousins), Nick and Jess, as they navigate this unimaginable loss. These funds will go toward helping his family during this devastating time.

"No donation is too small, and if you are unable to give, please consider sharing this with others. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your kindness, prayers, and support.

"Rest in peace, RJ. We love you always."

Click here to help RJ's family.