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On February 3, a tragic motorcycle accident claimed the life of 26-year-old Koby Flores along Hodges Boulevard in Jacksonville. This untimely loss has left a profound impact on his community, prompting an outpouring of love and remembrance.
In a heartfelt tribute, hundreds gathered at the Providence School baseball field to honor Flores’ memory just a week after the accident. The vigil was a testament to the impression he left on those around him, as a beloved friend, son, and teammate.
Flores was remembered by family and friends as an authentic and vibrant individual whose faith was a guiding force in his life. His presence brought joy and uplifted everyone fortunate enough to know him.
“Someday, we’ll remember him with a smile before the tears come, knowing he’s watching over us,” a childhood friend shared, encapsulating the sentiment of those who knew him.
Many attendees at the vigil shared a long history with Flores, having played baseball with him from a young age. This shared passion forged strong bonds that were evident in the collective grief and celebration of his life.
“We all grew up since we were six years old together playing baseball,” one friend said.
“It doesn’t even feel real,” another added. “I spent my whole life trying to be like him. It just hurts a lot. I miss him.”
The memorial on the field served as both a celebration of Flores’ life and a show of support for his family. His father said the community’s love has meant the world.
“He touched a lot of lives, and it proved tonight,” his father, Brad Flores said, who added that working alongside his son at TCI Mechanical in Atlantic Beach was one of his greatest joys.
“It was special to work with him. I got the opportunity to see him every day.”
Flores died Feb. 3 after his motorcycle collided with an SUV that turned into his path along Hodges Boulevard, according to the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office.
The driver stayed at the scene and cooperated with investigators.
A memorial now sits at the crash site, flowers and a piece of his motorcycle resting where his life was cut short.
On and off the field, those who knew him say Flores lived by the motto “faith over fear.”
“He was like a little roadrunner, that was actually the name of our team,” one friend said. “You could see his legs moving in circles and he’d even grunt when he ran.”
“He could walk into any room and dial up the temperature,” another added.
“The biggest dawg in the room,” his friend said. “I’ll miss him.”
His friends described him as fiercely competitive, joyful and always willing to give everything for those he loved.
“Just him laying out on the field, that’s a symbol of his life,” said another friend. “That’s what he did for his friends.”
Flores’ death marks the fifth motorcycle fatality in Duval County so far this year. Loved ones say his story is a powerful reminder of why motorcycle safety matters.
For now, the people who knew Koby Flores best are clinging to their memories, his laughter, his energy and the faith that kept him grounded.
“We love him so much,” his father said. “We can’t wait to see him again.”
The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office offers free motorcycle safety courses, with the next one scheduled for Feb. 28. Information on how to register can be found here.
A GoFundMe has also been set up to help the family during this time.