Security guard dies in motorcycle accident
Newark NJ July 15 2021 The day 20-year-old Robert Huiracocha died in a motorcycle crash on Route 1 and 9 near Newark Liberty International Airport in June was exactly one month after he bought the bike, his older sister told NJ Advance Media.
Getting a bike was one of his goals, and so was becoming a state trooper. Robert Huiracocha, of Bloomfield, participated in the Newark Police Explorer program, which educates youths who want to work in law enforcement.
“It was his dream,” said his sister, Cristy Huiracocha. “It was something he always wanted to do. He always wanted to help people. He was very selfless.”
Newark Public Safety Director Brian O’Hara said police responded to the Route 1&9 underpass at McClellan Street on June 16 just before 6 p.m. on a call of a single-vehicle motorcycle crash. There is no indication of foul play in the crash, but the case remains open.
Now, his sister is asking that anyone who may have witnessed the crash or may have dashboard camera footage to share it with the family and police to bring them closure.
Robert Huiracocha grew up in Bloomfield and is survived by his mom and dad, along with two siblings. He was once a member of the Explorers program in Bloomfield too, his sister said.
The weather was nice the day of the crash, his sister recalled, and her brother was not comfortable speeding since he was a new rider.
“It was something he always wanted,” said Cristy Huiracocha of her brother getting a motorcycle. “Once he gets something into his head, he was very determined. He just… he wanted one. He had his own money; it’s not like he had to ask my parents or anything.”
Robert Huiracocha worked two jobs while attending Kean University — one as a security guard and another at the airport near where he died. His two jobs allowed him to easily save up for a bike.
On the day of his death, he went on a ride with a friend who was a more experienced rider. His friend apparently sped ahead and backtracked once he realized Robert Huiracocha was no longer behind him, his sister said.
Another motorcycle crash occurred three days later in the same area of highway in Elizabeth, a city spokeswoman said. Additional details about the incident were not immediately available.
The family is also considering posting a cash reward for any footage of the crash.
“We need closure,” the sister said.
