Milford victim killed by alleged drunk driver laid to rest

MILFORD, Mass. -- A recent college graduate killed by an alleged drunk driver is now being laid to rest. Authorities say that man was dragged for nearly half a mile before the driver -- who was in this country illegally -- finally stopped.

He was always smiling, always telling jokes, always trying to make everybody happy,” said friend of the victim.

Led by a police escort, it was a heart wrenching day for family and friends who gathered in Milford to say goodbye to 23-year-old Matthew Denice.

“He was an excellent kid…always happy…loved life,” said Bobby Moody.

The recent graduate of Fitchburg State was killed on August 20th while riding his motorcycle. He was struck by an alleged drunk driver. Friends are devastated.

“He always had a smile on his face. He always had his thumbs up. All of these kids were just real friends. He is truly going to be missed,” said Evey Caron, family friend.

Prosecutors say 34-year-old Nicolas Guaman was under the influence when he ran a stop sign, dragging Denice half a mile with witnesses banging on his pick-up truck to stop. Inside the pick-up truck, the illegal immigrant had a 6-year-old son.

Attending the funeral was Bristol County Sheriff Tom Hodgson, with a promise.

“We…stand united around these families to make sure that we do everything we can to stop these kinds of things from happening by having the laws of our country enforced,” said Hodgson.

Others agree with the sheriff when it comes to illegal immigrants behind the wheel.

“They are illegal. I don't see why they get any treatment either way…it’s a criminal whether it’s violent or non-violent,” said Dwight Smith.

But this day was a day to pay tribute to Denice - a standout student who had a zest for life. The pain is deep.

“This family has gone through the worst tragedy a parent can ever go through - to lose a child - and we lost a child that could have been prevented,” said Vern Thayer.

With a promise to never forget, family members have established a Facebook page, "Justice for Matt."

The suspect, meanwhile, is being held on $100,000 cash bail.

Family members and friends as well say they will be there at his next court appearance.

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