Hafid Alicea, an 18-year-old senior and student-athlete at Maine West High School in Des Plaines, Illinois, took his own life and died by suicide on October 13, 2026, leaving his family, friends, and school community mourning the loss of a young life remembered for its kindness, athletic dedication, and positive impact on others.
Alicea was a member of Maine West’s football and wrestling programs. Known to those close to him as Gordo, he was a passionate athlete whose commitment to sports reflected his determination, discipline, and drive to succeed.
A Dedicated Student-Athlete
During his time at Maine West, Alicea participated in varsity football and wrestling. On the football field, he played as an outside linebacker and running back, wearing jersey No. 40. He also participated in cheer, demonstrating his involvement in multiple aspects of school athletics.
Standing 5 feet 5 inches tall and weighing approximately 145 pounds, Alicea worked to develop his strength, speed, and athletic ability. His listed achievements included a Defensive Player of the Year award during his sophomore year and recognition for his tackling performance.
Wrestling was another important part of his athletic journey. According to a tribute shared in a fundraising appeal for his family, Alicea’s dedication to the sport earned him a college wrestling scholarship—an accomplishment that reflected his hard work and promise for the future.
His achievements represented more than athletic ability. They were milestones in the life of a young man working toward his goals and building a future beyond high school.
Remembered for His Kindness and Warmth
In a message honoring Alicea, his loved ones described him as a sweet, caring, and kindhearted young man whose warmth touched the lives of those around him.
Beyond the football field and wrestling mat, Alicea was a beloved son, brother, family member, and friend. He leaves behind his parents, Bianca and Cris, and his younger siblings, Mia and Mason.
His death has brought profound grief to the family, who are now facing life without a son and brother whose presence meant so much to them.
The tribute shared by his loved ones emphasizes the lasting memories he created, the relationships he built, and the affection he gave freely to others. For those who knew him, his legacy extends far beyond statistics, awards, and athletic accomplishments.
Fundraiser Seeks Support for His Family
Following Alicea’s death, a GoFundMe fundraiser titled “In Loving Memory of Hafid Alicea — Supporting His Family During This Unimaginable Loss” was organized to help his family with unexpected funeral costs and related expenses.
The appeal asks friends, relatives, and members of the wider community to contribute what they can or share the fundraiser to help ease the financial burden on his parents as they grieve.
The fundraiser also serves as a tribute to Alicea’s life, celebrating the love he shared with his family and the many people whose lives he touched.
A Life and Legacy That Will Not Be Forgotten
At just 18 years old, Alicea had reached an important milestone as a high school senior, with athletic accomplishments and opportunities ahead of him. His reported wrestling scholarship represented the possibility of continuing his education and pursuing the sport at the college level.
His death is a heartbreaking loss for those who loved him and for the community in which he grew up and competed.
As his family, friends, teammates, and classmates remember him, their tributes reflect a young man whose impact cannot be measured solely by his achievements in sports. He will also be remembered for his kindness, his relationships, and the memories he leaves behind.
Hafid “Gordo” Alicea’s life was tragically short, but the love shared with him and the memories created in his 18 years will remain with those who knew him.
May Hafid Alicea rest in peace, and may his family and loved ones find strength and support as they navigate this devastating loss.
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