Bristol Community College student identified as 21-year-old killed in fiery crash

A fiery crash on Cape Cod claimed the life of a young man and sent multiple officers to the hospital.

According to police, at approximately 1:15 p.m. on December 9th, Yarmouth Police Department dispatchers received multiple 911 calls reporting a single car crash on Highbank Road in the area of Coveview Drive. Responding officers arrived to find the vehicle overturned in the wood line engulfed in flames. Officers attempted to render aid to the operator, who was still inside the vehicle, but were unable to extinguish the fire.

Yarmouth Fire Department crews arrived moments later and took over suppression efforts. Despite the efforts of the first responders, the 21-year-old operator and sole occupant of the vehicle succumbed to his injuries.

Three Yarmouth Police Officers were sent to Cape Cod Hospital for treatment of smoke inhalation.

According to a GoFundMe fundraiser, Rafael Joseph Rivera Calle “was born on June 11th, 2004, in Hyannis, MA. From the moment he arrived he brought an undeniable light and energy into the world. He had an infectious laugh and generous heart that touched everyone he met.

“He was a devoted son, brother, grandson, nephew and loyal friend. He was currently enrolled in Bristol Community College pursing a degree in Health and Science. His greatest passions included traveling to Ecuador with his family.”

The crash remains under investigation by the Yarmouth Police Department and the Cape Cod Regional Law Enforcement Council Crash Reconstruction Unit. Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 508-775-0445.