DENVER — The family of a motorcyclist who was fatally struck in Denver is demanding tougher charges against the driver.

Alejandro Cruz, 26, died after he and his 16-year-old nephew, Isaac Rivera-Cruz, were hit while riding a motorcycle near South Federal Boulevard and Harvard Avenue on October 5.

According to Cruz’s family, the two had gone to buy some food a few blocks away for a family dinner. The family said the motorcycle was traveling south on S. Federal Boulevard when a vehicle failed to yield on a left turn and struck the duo.

Cruz Family

“It just hurts that it had to happen like that. And that, that had to happen in general,” Rivera-Cruz said.

Rivera-Cruz is still recovering from the physical and emotional pain of that night. He still remembers the moment it happened.

“The car came at us and then hit us from the side. And after that, it just sent me flying across the street,” Rivera-Cruz recalled, fighting back tears. “I just wanted my uncle checked.”

Rivera-Cruz said he had to undergo several surgeries and cannot walk on his own. He is not sure how long his recovery will take.

Alex Cruz’s family

Cruz was excited to welcome his first child, a girl, in January.

“I know all the things he would have done for our son, and just in life. We had so many plans,” said his girlfriend, Litsy Rodriguez, who had been with him for 10 years.

The Denver Police Department said the driver was deemed at fault for the crash and was cited for negligent driving resulting in death and negligent driving resulting in serious bodily injury, both misdemeanors. The driver was also cited for failure to yield while turning left, a traffic violation.

Cruz’s family believes the driver should face more severe charges.

“To be honest, it’s very disturbing. It’s a little frustrating. It’s like a slap on the hand,” said Jesús Cruz, Cruz’s brother. “He’ll probably be free, he’ll probably not go to jail, maybe parole, maybe, maybe not. But he will practically live his life as if nothing had happened.”

The Denver District Attorney’s Office will make the final decision regarding charges. A spokesperson said they have not yet received or reviewed the case.

The Cruz family hopes that by sharing Alex’s story, drivers will be more aware on the roads.

“Especially motorcycles, they are very vulnerable. There is nothing between you and a car,” added Jesús Cruz.

The relatives have launched a GoFundMe fundraiser to help Isaac in his recovery. they are also raising money for Cruz memorial and to help his girlfriend and unborn baby.