Family and friends came together on Saturday to remember and pay their respects to Roderick Jackson, a resident of Cambridge who tragically lost his life last week in a hit-and-run crash. The solemn gathering took place at St. Paul A.M.E. Church, where attendees came to honor the memory of the beloved man.

According to authorities, the fatal incident occurred while Jackson was working with a National Grid team on Totten Pond Road. The suspected driver of the pickup truck, 54-year-old Peter Simon from New Hampshire, allegedly veered into the work area, striking and ultimately killing Jackson in the process.

Described as kind, loving, and hardworking, Jackson was the pillar of strength for his family. Despite being a child himself, he took on the responsibility of raising his three younger siblings while still accomplishing remarkable feats as an athlete.

The devastating loss has left his mother, Norma Asprilla, in disbelief. "I just came to the conclusion yesterday as I brought his clothes to the funeral home. Oh my god, I am burying my baby... horrific," expressed Asprilla in an emotional statement to Boston 25 News.

The funeral proceedings provided an opportunity for the community to come together and offer their condolences to Jackson's grieving family, who continue to cope with the profound loss. The public was invited to pay their respects at St. Paul A.M.E. Church from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., where memories of Jackson's kindness and dedication were shared and celebrated.

In a tragic twist, the hit-and-run crash also claimed the life of Waltham police officer Paul Tracey. His funeral took place on Friday, leaving the community doubly devastated by the loss of two outstanding individuals.

The investigation into the incident is ongoing, and authorities are working diligently to bring justice to those responsible for the untimely deaths of Roderick Jackson and Paul Tracey. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of road safety and the devastating consequences of careless driving.

As the community continues to mourn the loss of these two remarkable individuals, the memories of Roderick Jackson's dedication, love, and resilience will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of those who knew him.