Connecticut National Guardsman killed in car crash three days before wedding

A 19-year-old member of the Connecticut National Guard was killed in a car wreck the same week he was supposed to get married, a military official revealed.

Specialist Josue Alicea-Tirado, of Waterbury, succumbed to his injuries from a car crash Tuesday, just three days before his wedding, which is now scheduled to be the day of his wake, according to his obituary.

“The loss of this young man so close to what should have been the happiest day of his life makes this tragedy even harder to digest,” Maj. Gen. Francis J. Evon Jr. said in a tweet Wednesday.

His wedding was scheduled for Friday, Evon Jr. noted.

“He was fortunate to come from a large and closeknit extended family that was very proud of him and his military service,” Evon Jr. said in a statement.

“I extend my deepest sympathies to his family and fiancée.”

Alicea-Tirado, of the 102nd Infantry, was with the Connecticut National Guard for two years and was a mechanic in his civilian life, Evon said.

The teenager was killed early Tuesday morning when Alicea-Tirado’s ride and another vehicle collided, according to the CT Insider. The other driver reportedly suffered non-life threatening injuries.

“It is often during these unfortunate events that we take time to reflect on our own lives,” Evon Jr. said.

“As you keep the memory of Josue in your thoughts, please remember that the health and safety of our force is paramount and the decisions we make every day should be a reflection of our dedication to maintaining the well-being of our Connecticut National Guard community.”  

Alicea-Tirado, born in Puerto Rico, leaves behind his parents and three siblings, including a twin sister, according to his obituary.

In his free time he would attend car meets and enjoyed attending car shows, his obit said.

Maj. David Pytlik said Alicea-Tirado’s family extends to Puerto Rico and includes numerous law enforcement officers, according to the CT Post.

“They’re very proud of his military service,” Pytlik reportedly said.

He’s expected to be buried Saturday with full military honors.