VISTA, Calif. (KGTV) - Family and friends are mourning a teen killed in a motorcycle crash in Vista on Thursday.
At a light pole near a shopping center in Vista, there is a growing memorial for a young life cut short, one day before his 20th birthday.
“He loved motorcycles … He went on rides with friends,” said Chris Hendrickson.
Thursday was a day Christopher Hendrickson had been looking forward to, when his motorcycle permit would become a license.
His father, Chris, says after leaving the DMV with a new license, his son was riding his motorcycle on Hacienda Drive around 1 p.m. when the crash happened.
Deputies have released few details, but say a Subaru hatchback collided with the motorcycle.
The driver of the Subaru was not injured.
Christopher, who was wearing a helmet, was rushed to a hospital, where he pronounced dead.
“Parents are supported to go before their kid,” said a tearful Hendrickson.
For a grieving father, the pain is overwhelming.
“Go from numb to being sad to being angry. I don't wish this on my worst enemy,” said Hendrickson.
Chris says his son, who worked a Chick-fil-A, graduated from Guajome Park Academy in Vista and was taking business classes at MiraCosta College. He calls his son, outgoing, athletic and caring.
“He was hardworking, charismatic, a great son. Everybody loved him. Everybody loved him,” said Hendrickson.
Chris says his son loved motorcycles and was a safe rider. He has this plea for other drivers.
“People on the cars need to look out for the people on the bikes,” said Hendrickson.
A day after a motorcycle ride that ended in tragedy, loved ones are remembering a young life lost.
“The world has lost a huge thing. I'm confident he would have made a difference,” said Hendrickson.
Deputies say alcohol and drugs are not believed to be factors in the crash, and the investigation is ongoing.
A Gofundme campaign has been set up to help the family with funeral and other expenses.
