Family remembers 20-year-old killed in East Providence rollover crash

A Providence family is mourning the loss of a 20-year-old man killed in a rollover crash early Sunday morning in East Providence. According to East Providence police, the crash happened around 4 a.m. on the Wampanoag Trail near Forbes Street. Police said two young adults were inside the vehicle when it rolled over. One man died at the scene, while a female passenger was hospitalized with minor injuries. Family members identified the victim as Anthony Barajas Jr. Surrounded by photos and memories inside their home Monday, Anthony’s loved ones described him as someone who could light up any room with his smile and sense of humor. “I never imagined I would have to go through so much pain," said Anthony’s mother, Erika Bergance-Cruz. She said Anthony had spent Saturday night out with friends and was driving to a friend’s house when the crash happened. “He had spent the night out, and he was going to that friend's house,” Bergance-Cruz said. “He was only two minutes away.” Anthony’s sister, Toni Barajas, described her younger brother as caring, funny and loyal. “He was my headache. He was my best friend, but he made it everyday fun,” she said. She said the loss has been devastating for the family. “This is something like you never think about experiencing such a young age,” Barajas said. “You think with your siblings ... that they all grow old.” Anthony’s younger brother, Aryck Cruz, said Anthony always tried to make people smile, no matter the situation. “He would just always make jokes, no matter what,” Cruz said. “If it was a scary situation or like any type of situation. His jokes would always just make you laugh no matter what.” ALSO READ: Four displaced after fire significantly damages residence in East Greenwich Family members said Anthony was also preparing for a new chapter in life. According to his mother, he was about to become a father. “What do you want your grandchild to know about your son? To know about their father?” NBC 10 asked. “That he was a loving person,” Bergance-Cruz said. “He was motivated to live life. He lived the life of the fullest.” Anthony’s sister said she hopes people remember him for the joy he brought others. “I just want him to be remembered as a funny person, as someone that cared about everybody that he was around and to be remembered for his smile,” she said. Police are still investigating the cause of the crash and the events leading up to it. The family has since launched a GoFundMe to help cover funeral expenses.