SAN ANTONIO — The local biker community, family and friends came together Sunday afternoon to honor 19-year-old Jace Mendoza.
On May 27, police say Jace was cutting across multiple lanes of traffic on NW Loop 410 and Vance Jackson Road, when he lost control and fell off his bike. Mendoza was hit and killed by two vehicles.
“He was everything. He was such a sweet boy, a sweet young man. He was very caring and a protector of his little brothers and sisters. He was very helpful to the elderly in the neighborhood. He was just an all around good kid,” said Jessica Lujan, Jace's mother.
Lujan says her son was a special kid with a beautiful smile and he was a jokester, always making everyone laugh and smile. Jace also had a passion for riding his motorcycle.
“This is what he loved. He loved riding. He was always riding,” said Lujan.
Lujan says dealing with Jace's passing has been difficult.
“I wouldn't wish this on anybody. My days are dark. I have to remain positive. I have three other kids, my husband,” said Lujan.
Sunday afternoon, the non-profit Fallen Riders organized a memorial ride to celebrate him. They rode from where the accident happened to his home, where his family held a graduation party for the Clark graduate. Jace was set to walk the stage on Monday.
"It's during a time of turmoil and chaos a little bit, but it just shows how strong our backbone is and how we are there for each other when stuff like this happens," said Zero Calderon, founder of Fallen Riders.
"I think for some family, it also helps bring closure," said Jeanette Reyes, founder of Fallen Riders.
Jace's family placed a memorial in front of their home where Jace always parked his bike. The bike will be placed there permanently, so he will always be remembered.
“We miss him. We love him everyday, everyday he's in our hearts. I wish he could be here, but he's with me all the time,” said Lujan.
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