Cedar Crest HS Football Player Damarius Galarza, 18, Dies Unexpectedly in Sleep, Had Dreamed of Studying Construction Management at Penn Tech!

Tragically, he breathed his last just two days after he got his driver's license.

January 13, 2026

This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on January 13, 2026

An 18-year-old varsity football player at Cedar Crest High School, Damarius Galarza, passed away unexpectedly in his sleep on Saturday, December 10, 2026.

Tragically, he breathed his last just two days after he got his driver’s license.

Damarius Galarza is survived by his mother, Mesha Franco, and extended family.

He had a special bond with his niece, who was born just a day before his birthday. They had a sound bond, and he loved playing the piano for her.

His mother, Mesha, is navigating overwhelming grief and unexpected expenses. Henceforth, a GoFundMe campaign has been set up to help the family financially with the funeral and memorial costs.

Damarius, who played footbal, was looking forward to attending Penn Tech in the fall to study construction management.

He was the type of person who was open to helping anyone in need.

An avid Philadelphia Eagles fan, Damarius Galarza played football at the Cedar Crest Falcons football team in Lebanon, Pennsylvania.

He played as a defensive end wearing number 74, and sometimes lined up at guard too on the offensive side.

Besides football, he loved running on tracks, fishing, skateboarding, rollerblading, and riding his bike.

You May Read: Norco High School Varsity Soccer Player Reese Carter Died, Leaving Parents and Two Siblings Heartbroken!

Falcon Football Club expressed their grief in a post, writing:

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Senior Falcon Football player, Damarius Galarza, who passed away in his sleep Saturday night.
Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and teammates during this difficult time. The Falcon Football Coaches and Parent Club are here to support our Falcon Family and will share more information on how to support the family as it becomes available.

Damarius’s family has yet to share details surrounding his funeral and memorial services.

During this challenging time, we pray for Damarius’s mother, friends, teammates, and extended family.

Rest In Heavenly Peace, Damarius Galarza!

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Aditi is an avid music lover whose interest's goes beyond the realm of music, with passion in digital marketing. A Gen Z who loves her personal space and is keen to exploring new things. An optimist who seeks silver lining in every circumstances life throws at her.

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