Family, Community Mourn East High Graduate Killed in Crash

The family of Ricardo Carrero Chico, who was tragically killed in a car accident, started a GoFundMe campaign to help with funeral expenses

Family and community members gathered Thursday evening to honor Ricardo Carrero Chico, a recent East High School graduate who was killed earlier this week in a car crash on Route 590 in Rochester.

Carrero Chico, 17, died Tuesday when his vehicle crossed the median on State Route 590 near the Empire Boulevard exit and struck two other cars, according to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Three other people sustained minor injuries.

On Thursday, dozens of loved ones and classmates gathered at the North Street R-Center to release red balloons in his memory, chanting “Long live Ricky” as they remembered a young man described as joyful, kind and full of life.

“Ricky was a great son,” his mother, Yadira Chico, said. “He was always willing to help anyone. He was very respectful, super lovable. He just had this light.”

Carrero Chico, who moved to Rochester from Puerto Rico eight years ago, had recently graduated from East High School and was planning to become an electrician. The Rochester City School District issued a statement expressing condolences and noted that counseling services would be available for students and staff.

“Our thoughts are with everyone who knew and loved him,” the district said. “We are holding his family close in our hearts and offering full support to the East staff and students who are grieving.”

Rochester City School District Commissioner Jacqueline Griffin also expressed sympathy in a statement on social media.

“I would like to express my sincerest condolences to the family and friends of Ricardo Carrero Chico, a young man from East High School, who tragically passed away yesterday,” Griffin said. “I pray that God grants you the strength and courage to persevere through this trying time, as He has promised to always be by your side. You are in my prayers.”

The crash remains under investigation. A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to assist Carrero Chico’s family with funeral expenses.

Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.