A 17-year-old boy in Ohio died in a Strongsville accident on November 17, 2024, on Columbia West River Road. According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, the young driver, Dominic Galarza, was heading north around 11 p.m. when his vehicle went off course while navigating a curve near Sprague Road in Columbia Township.
A GoFundMe account set up in his memory has raised over $15,000, showing the strong support for his family during this difficult time. According to the details provided:
"Dominick was the most kind, sweet soul, dedicated son, loving brother Isaiah, and friend to many. He loved dogs, watching UFC, dancing to Spanish music and tinkering on his car. Dommy was deep and intellectual, an avid learner that had aspirations of becoming a therapist to help others. His smile would light up the room and he gave the best hugs."
How did Dominick Galarza die in the Strongsville accident?
According to 19 News, Dominick's vehicle, a 2011 Ford Fusion, veered off course while taking a curve, causing it to travel across the roadway.
According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, the vehicle driven by the teen.
“went left of center while negotiating a curve before going off the right side of the roadway, striking a guardrail and down an embankment.”
This caused the car to veer off course and crash, ultimately leading to the teen’s fatal injuries. The car then struck a guardrail and slid down an embankment.
Emergency responders from Columbia Township Fire Department worked to extricate the driver, who was then rushed to Southwest General Health Center, where he later died from his injuries.
Despite the crash, Dominick was wearing his seatbelt at the time, according to the Ohio State Highway Patrol.
The Galzara family urges support after the Strongsville accident
Humberto Galarza, who seems to be the father of Dominick Galarza, posted a link to Dominick's GoFundMe account with the caption:
"I love Dominick with all my heart. You are my love, my little man, and Dominick I will always have you in my heart always and forever"
Cathy Wells, who has lived near the crash site for 50 years, shared with 3WKYC News that she was at home when she heard a 'loud boom' in the middle of the night. She was disturbed by the sound, which was the moment of the crash.
Dominick’s close friend, Bradley Ashworth, visited the site to seek answers after the Strongsville accident.
"I just wanted answers because Dominick is the safest driver that I've ever been in a car with,"
Bradley told 3WKYC News. He expressed his disbelief, mentioning how careful Dominick was behind the wheel, noting things like stopping completely at stop signs and maintaining a significant distance behind the line.
3 WKYC Studios reported that Strongsville City Schools also issued a statement signed by Superintendent Dr. Cameron Ryba. The statement acknowledged the tragic event and expressed the school district's condolences to the family of the teen involved. It said:
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"Our heartfelt sympathies go out to Dominick’s family and friends during this difficult time. Our SHS teachers shared a statement of the news with students today at school. SCS counselors have and will be available throughout the day to offer students individual and group support."
The statement emphasized the importance of supporting children emotionally after the tragic death of Dominick Galarza in the Strongsville accident. It encouraged parents to talk to their children about their feelings, listen to their concerns, and maintain regular routines to promote comfort. The statement also provided resources for further support and encouraged parents to contact school counselors if their child needs additional assistance.
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