What started as a night of celebration for Spurs fans has turned into a heartbreaking tragedy in San Antonio.
Jose “Joey” Rodriguez, a 17-year-old Spurs supporter, has been declared brain-dead after suffering catastrophic head injuries during celebrations following San Antonio’s playoff win over the Thunder, according to the San Antonio Express-News.
The incident happened after the Spurs’ Game 6 victory over Oklahoma City, a win that forced a deciding Game 7 in the Western Conference Finals.
Rodriguez was reportedly sitting on the open passenger-side window of a moving vehicle when it struck a curb, causing him to fall onto the pavement.
“He left blood all over the street,” Rodriguez’s Aunt, Yvonne Hudson, told the San Antonio Express-News.
Family members said Rodriguez had asked his parents for permission to join the celebrations, but they were initially hesitant because of the “nonsense” happening around the city after the Spurs win.
After being reassured another parent would be supervising the group, they agreed to let him go.
His Aunt later revealed Rodriguez instead went out with only friends.
Rodriguez was first rushed to a nearby clinic before being transferred to a trauma center due to the severity of his injuries, according to relatives.
The outlet reported he had no pulse for roughly eight minutes.
A GoFundMe page created for Rodriguez described him as “a young man with a kind heart who has always been there for others.”
“Known for his positive attitude, willingness to help anyone in need, Joey has touched the lives of so many people,” the fundraiser continued.
The San Antonio Police Department later released a statement following the incident.
“The San Antonio Police Department extends our sympathy to the family, friends and loved ones affected by this tragic and preventable incident,” SAPD said.
“This serves as an important reminder that public safety is a shared responsibility. We encourage everyone celebrating to follow traffic laws, stay inside of your vehicles and follow directions from the officers who are there to keep everyone safe.”
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