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'He's been like the fuel in the fire of my life': NC State senior killed in pedestrian crash remembered by brother

The victim, 21-year-old Ben DeRose was walking home when he was struck by a vehicle. The victim's brother says Ben's legacy will live on in at least seven people who will receive his organs.

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By
Amanda Lamb
, WRAL reporter
RALEIGH, N.C. — A North Carolina State University student was killed crossing the street early Sunday morning.

The victim, 21-year-old Ben DeRose, was walking home when he was struck by a vehicle. DeRose was transported to the hospital where he later died from his injuries.

In an exclusive interview with WRAL News, the victim's big brother Adam DeRose said that Ben touched so many people. He was studying microbiology, worked in a lab in New Mexico and was a proud member of the Alpha Sigma Phi fraternity.

"As his big brother, he's been like the fuel in the fire of my life," said Adam. "He didn't shy down from anything in life, and his perspective gave him the ability to make the best out of the world."

Courtesy: The DeRosa family

Adam says losing his little brother Ben has taught him the importance of staying close with your family. He says the family is devastated, but coping with loss as a strong unit.

"We're strong because that's who we are," said Adam. "It's what makes life easier, and it's what makes life worth living."

According to a crash report released by Raleigh Police Department, the car that struck DeRose was a 2008 Acura. The driver, Shaun Oster of Cary, was charged with failure to reduce speed to avoid collision with a pedestrian and misdemeanor death by motor vehicle.

Raleigh police also report DeRose was running northwest across Crest Road at "a point where there is no crosswalk, not at the intersection" when the vehicle struck him.

When speaking to WRAL News Wednesday, the driver of the Acura said they stopped, called 911 and stayed until help arrived.

"We care a lot for the DeRose family, and Ben is going to be greatly missed. He touched everyone in a positive way and shined a light in this world," reads the GoFundMe post.

Adam DeRose said his brother's legacy will live on in at least seven people who will receive his organs.

"It is literally taking the tragedy and turning it into a miracle for at least seven other people," said Adam "We can spread seven times more good than we received bad with doing that," Adam said.

Courtesy: The DeRosa family

There will be an on-campus vigil Wednesday evening outside of Talley Student Union at 8:30 p.m.

His funeral is planned for this Friday in Wake Forest.

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