The Montgomery County community is rallying to support the family of a recent Rockville High School graduate following his death in a tragic crash earlier this week.
Matthew Garcia, 18, of Rockville, was killed Wednesday night in a single-vehicle crash in Wicomico County. Maryland State Police say Garcia was driving a Honda Civic that crashed just before 9pm in the Fruitland area. He was flown by helicopter to a trauma center, where he later died from his injuries.
Two other teens were inside the vehicle at the time of the crash. Andy Fon Koh, 18, of Takoma Park, was transported to a shock trauma center, and Eyuael Zewdie, 18, of Washington, D.C., was taken by ambulance to a local hospital. Investigators say the crash occurred around 8:41pm on South Division Street near Coulbourn Mill after the vehicle failed to stop at a posted stop sign, struck the top of a guardrail, and came to rest in Coulbourn Mill Pond.
In the days since Garcia’s death, friends, classmates, and community members have come together to support his family through a GoFundMe created in his memory. In the fundraiser, organizers describe Matthew as a loving son, brother, nephew, cousin, grandchild, and friend who was known for his kindness, generosity, and the warmth he brought to those around him. They note that his presence touched many lives and that his loss has left an immeasurable void.
Matthew was a recent graduate of Rockville High School and had begun pursuing his future as an International Business student in the Purdue School of Business at the University of Salisbury, where he was also a member of the AI Club. Family and friends say he had ambitious goals, strong determination, and a bright future ahead of him.
The GoFundMe states that donations will go directly to the Garcia family to help cover memorial expenses and provide some measure of comfort during an incredibly painful time. Organizers emphasized that while nothing can ease the loss of a child, they hope to honor Matthew’s life in a way that reflects the love, light, and joy he shared with others. The fundraiser can be seen here.
