Massachusetts State Police recruit who died during training mourned at funeral, "It feels impossible"
WORCESTER - The Massachusetts State Police recruit who died after getting injured in a training exercise was laid to rest after his funeral Saturday in Worcester.
Death under investigation
Hundreds came to pay their respects and say goodbye to 25-year-old Trooper Enrique Delgado-Garcia. He died earlier this month after a boxing training exercise. Circumstances surrounding his death remain under investigation.
A State Police flyover, prayers and a presentation of the flag took place Saturday at the Mercandante Funeral Home and Chapel. A wake was held Friday. Among the mourners was Mary Hart, who had known Delgado-Garcia since high school.
"Enrique was a joy and he was the best hugger," said Hart. "Even the first time I met him, he gave me the biggest hug."
Dream to be state trooper
Family and friends said Delgado-Garcia's dream was to become a state trooper and make a difference in the lives of the people in his community. After graduating high school, he obtained his bachelors degree in criminal justice at Westfield State University. He began his career as a victim's advocate with the Worcester District Attorney's office before being recruited by the Massachusetts State Police.
"He was here to love and to be loved," said Hart. "He wanted to protect and serve with love and kindness."
Dozens of recruits and State Police stood solemnly in formation during the funeral as so many are still trying to understand how his tragic death could've been avoided.
"It feels impossible," said family friend Caroline Root. "It's an incredible loss for his friends, his family but I think for our entire community."
The family thanked the community for the outpouring of love and support and the expressions of sympathy they received. Delgado-Garcia was later laid to rest at Notre Dame Cemetery in Worcester.