East Rockaway teen dies in motorcycle accident

Kelvin Rodriguez, 18, described as “an outgoing kid who was always smiling,” died in an accident while riding his beloved motorcycle in Baldwin on March 16.

According to detectives Rodriguez, of East Rockaway, was riding his Honda motorcycle eastbound on Sunrise Highway at around 8 a.m. when he was struck by another vehicle at Charing Cross Road.He was transported to South Nassau Communities Hospital, where he was pronounced dead by hospital staff. Detectives report no apparent criminality at this time.

“He was interested in cars and motorcycles,” said Monica O’Kane, whose son attended Centre Avenue Elementary and East Rockaway High School with Rodriguez, where he graduated last year. “He was always tinkering with his car in his driveway.” He was also into fitness and weightlifting, said O’Kane. “He went from a skinny kid to a body builder,” she said.

“He was a very kind person who was well liked by his teachers and peers,” said East Rockaway High School Principal Bill Fortgang. “Our condolences go to his entire family.”

"Kelvin was a much loved student at Centre," said Principal Tim Silk. "He was well liked by his peers in treated all with great respect. He will be sorely missed."

Rodriguez is survived by his mother, an older sister, and a younger brother who is in the third grade at Centre Avenue, where he often went to pick up his little brother after school. Their father died ten years ago.

A wake was held at Macken Mortuary in Rockville Centre, and a Mass was celebrated at St. Agnes. Anyone wishing to help the family with a donation can email O’Kane at mehavedogs@yahoo.com