Driver killed in fiery Route 3 crash was a ‘devoted father,’ football-lover

LINDEN, N.J. (PIX11) – Luis “Papo” Santiago’s truck was “more than just a vehicle” for the 35-year veteran driver, it was a symbol of his dedication and work ethic, his family said. 

Now, Santiago's death has left a huge void for his three daughters, who remember their father as a fun-loving and devoted father who loved little more than watching football with an ice-cold Pepsi. 

“His life was a blend of dedication on the road and unwavering love for his family and friends,” said his daughter, Meghan Echevarria, on a GoFundMe page. “Those who had the pleasure of knowing our dad knew how much of a joy he was to be around.”

Hundreds of people have raised over $21,000 for the family of Santiago, who died two weeks ago after the truck he was driving crashed into the Route 3 sound barrier and burst into flames, officials said. 

Santiago was a “loving” father to three daughters and a grandfather to two grandchildren. He never missed important moments with his family, Echevarria said. 

“Whether through his witty remarks, playful jokes, or funny stories, he had a remarkable ability to lift our spirits and create moments of genuine happiness,” Echevarria said. “His laughter was infectious, and his playful antics often turned ordinary days into treasured memories.”

In his free time, Santiago was a man who knew how to enjoy simple pleasures like the 49ers and playing dominos.

The support on the GoFundMe has been overwhelming for Santiago's family and the money is a big relief, Echevarria said.

"Words cannot fully convey how much your kindness means to us," Echevarria wrote on the GoFundMe. “The next time you drink a Pepsi, raise a glass for our dad."