Loved ones remember teen whose smile 'could light up any room'

May 13-Fourteen-year-old Jaiden Andre "El Borrado" Contreras Alvarado is being remembered by family and friends as a bright, joyful teenager whose smile, kindness and personality "could light up any room."

As loved ones prepare to lay the Christen Middle School student to rest, community members have continued sharing condolences and memories in support of his family.

Family members described Jaiden as a happy-go-lucky teen who loved staying active through football, basketball, school band activities and spending time outdoors at his family's ranch.

"Mi bebito, cómo te extraño," his mother, Irene Hernandez, wrote days after his death. "My baby, how I miss you."

Jaiden also carried big dreams for his future. According to his obituary published by Hillside Funerals and Cremations, he hoped to become part of the Martin High School Class of 2030, join the Tigers football team and participate in R.O.T.C.

An avid animal lover, he also dreamed of becoming a veterinarian and one day serving in the U.S. Army.

Contreras is survived by his parents, Irene S. Hernandez, Alex Alvarado and Andrew I. Contreras; his sisters, Lia Contreras, Alezandra Alvarado and Mikkaela Alvarado; his grandparents, San Juanita Hernandez, George Guerra, Isabel Rendon and Juan Alvarado; and numerous relatives and friends.

His memory has also been honored through the Laredo Martin Golden Class' "Remembering Fallen Tigers" tribute page on social media, where condolences from community members continue to pour in.

Contreras' family has also created a GoFundMe campaign to help cover memorial and medical expenses. As of Wednesday, 85% of its $4,500 goal had been met.

A visitation will be held from 5-10 p.m. Friday at Hillside Funerals and Cremations, where a rosary will be recited at 7 p.m.

Funeral services will begin at 7 a.m. Saturday at Hillside Funerals and Cremations. A funeral procession will depart at 8 a.m. for Christ the King Catholic Church, where Mass will begin at 8:30 a.m.

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This story was originally published May 13, 2026 at 11:06 PM.