An Altha teen lost his life in a single vehicle crash just before noon Saturday.
Eighteen-year-old Angel Enrique Morales, known to many friends as Ricky, was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash.
According to the Florida Highway Patrol, Morales was the driver and sole occupant of a 2004 Ford Edge and was traveling northbound on County Road 69-A in Jackson County, commonly referred to as Shady Grove Road. Morales reportedly entered a left curve, then his right tires left the road. He steered left, lost control, re-entered the road, then the vehicle began rotating counter-clockwise, entering the grass shoulder. The right side of the vehicle collided with a driveway culvert, went airborne, then overturned. Morales was ejected. He was not wearing a seatbelt.
Jackson County Fire Rescue assisted at the scene. FHP Corporal C.D. Chapman investigated the crash.
A 2012 graduate of Altha High School, friends and former classmates were stunned by his sudden death. Posts on his Facebook page indicate how much he was loved. One friend recalled how Morales made him feel welcome when he attended his church. “He always had a smile on his face and he loved the Lord most importantly,” one remarked.
Others recalled whitewater rafting trips, baseball games and Morales’ famous “Pablo burger” he made for friends. Most of all, he was known for his positive attitude.
One group of friends has organized a gathering for him following his funeral on Saturday afternoon. All friends and loved ones are invited to Johnny Boy Landing to release blue balloons in his memory. His complete obituary with funeral service details can be found on page 10 of this issue.
A 2012 graduate of Altha High School, friends and former classmates were stunned by his sudden death. One group of friends has organized a gathering for him following his funeral on Saturday afternoon. All friends and loved ones are invited to Johnny Boy Landing to release blue balloons in his memory. His complete obituary with funeral service details can be found in our print edition and under the obituaries tab online.
