On July 3, 2025, a violent storm hit central New Jersey, leaving a trail of destruction and claiming the lives of at least three people, including Bryan Flores Valladares, a 25-year-old Salvadoran man returning home from his day’s work in Plainfield.
At approximately 6:56 p.m., while Bryan was driving home, a large tree fell on his vehicle due to high winds, killing him instantly.
The tragedy of Bryan Flores Valladares
The storm, with wind gusts up to 80 mph, downed more than 80 trees and knocked out power to nearly 20,000 homes in Union and Somerset counties.
Bryan, originally from El Salvador, was known for his dedication and hard work.
His sudden departure has left a deep void in his family, especially in his mother, Orbelina Valladares, who lives in El Salvador and faces the painful reality of saying goodbye to her son from afar.
Repatriation support campaign
Faced with financial difficulties in moving Bryan’s body to his home country, the family has launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for his repatriation and funeral services.
The campaign page reads: “It is with deep sadness that Bryan Flores Valladares has passed away from the severe storm that hit the city of Plainfield, New Jersey. We are turning to you with our hearts in our hands to ask for help at such a difficult time.”
The community has responded with solidarity, and as of July 5, more than $4,400 had been raised to support the family in this difficult process.
A call for solidarity
For the Salvadoran and Latino community in the United States, this tragedy highlights the challenges faced by migrant families in times of crisis.
The costs associated with repatriating a loved one can be overwhelming, and community support becomes essential.
Bryan’s family appeals to all those who can help, either through a donation or by sharing the campaign, so that they can say a last goodbye to him in his homeland.
La familia del salvadoreño está destrozada por tan trágica muerte y suplican ayuda
How to help
If you wish to support Bryan’s family at this difficult time, you can do so through the GoFundMe campaign : Campaign for Bryan Flores Valladares
Every contribution, no matter how small, represents a gesture of solidarity and empathy towards a family facing an irreparable loss.
Find out more at ‘QueOnnda.com’.
