NBC 5 is learning more about the man killed near downtown Dallas on Saturday when a person crashed into his car while being chased by police.
Joel Jusino, 36, was a US Air Force veteran from Chicago who left behind a 4-year-old son and a girlfriend. Loved ones said Jusino served his country, was a loving father, and put family above everything.
“As we were looking through photos you can see his infectious smile,” said Juan Rios, Jusino’s uncle.
The Texas DPS said Fort Worth police started chasing a person driving a stolen vehicle at about 1 p.m. Saturday. Investigators said state troopers joined the chase all the way into Dallas, where the driver drove the wrong way along an Interstate 35E service road near Linden Road and crashed into Jusino's car, killing him.
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The driver of the stolen car, identified as 35-year-old Devonte Webber, was arrested and has been charged with murder and evading arrest with a vehicle causing death.
“He actually sent me a text message a couple of hours before everything happened,” said Saby Colon, the victim’s cousin.
“What can I say? He just made us all happy,” said Rios.
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Loved ones said Jusino was all about family. He often organized holiday group messages, sending videos of him making the recipes they would share when together.
“He has a legacy, you know, we have [his son],” said Colon. “And so, it’s really just what we need to get him home.”
As a veteran, the family said Jusino’s body could be transported back to Chicago at minimal cost through VA benefits, but he would have to be buried at a military cemetery more than an hour from their home. The family is now asking the community for help bringing Jusino’s body back to Chicago to be laid to rest alongside loved ones.
“Bringing him back home,” said Rios. “Even though he was over there, Chicago was always his home.”
Loved ones are raising money on GoFundMe to bring Jusino’s body to their family cemetery. Donations are accepted here.
