Memorial fundraiser held for teen killed in hit and run

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PUNTA GORDA, Fla. – Hundreds of people from across Southwest Florida turned out to the memorial BMX race to raise money for a Port Charlotte teen who was killed by a hit and run driver.

The crash happened Feb. 26th on Sheehan Boulevard in front of his friends. Florida Highway Patrol is still searching for the driver. They believe the driver was in an older model Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck.

Friday, riders packed the track at Charlotte BMX to competed in the memorial race. Every jump, turn and lap was a  tribute to their friend, Devin Federly.

Carmelo Rodriguez was a friend of Devin’s and says he organized the event because he wanted to do something that would make Devin happy.

“This is the least I could do for him and help his family out,” said Rodriguez, who was happy with the turnout. “It means a lot to know that people actually care even though if they don’t know him to still come out to support our lost loved one. It really means a lot.”

The teens raised $500 by selling t-shirts they made to honor their friend. In addition to other donations, a portion of the registration fees also went to to the family to help pay for funeral costs.
The family plans to bury Devin in California alongside his mother who tragically passed away from cancer just six months ago.

In a touching show of support, everyone in attendance  got together to walk one last lap in Devin’s honor.

Devin’s friends say they want his family to know- that they’re not alone.

“We all really do love and miss Devin,” said Trinity Rayls.
“He left a mark on us and we all appreciate that he was here and that we’re sorry for his loss,” said Sage Sanders.
“No matter what, I will always be there for them and the community will be there for them,”said Rodriguez.

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