Jose Fernandez’s Friend Sent An Ominous Text Message Just Before Their Tragic Boat Accident

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One reaction to the news that Jose Fernandez died in a boat crash with two friends early Sunday morning included those wondering why anyone would go onto the water at that hour. According to Local 10, that sentiment was communicated by one friend via text before Fernandez, Emilio Macia and Eduardo Rivero ever got on the boat.

Rivero’s friends said Fernandez was stressed out about something and needed to blow off steam on the water.

They said Rivero messaged another friend and was hesitant about going out on the boat, but went anyway to keep Fernandez close to shore.

One of Rivero’s last texts to a friend was: “Trust me. It’s not my time.”

Here is a screenshot of that conversation, which was posted to the Instagram page of a friend of Rivero’s.

View this post on Instagram

Our last phone conversation and text messages last night. I feel sick to my stomach. Everyone is talking about Jose Fernandez but you died trying to be there for him and be a good friend. This doesn't sit with me well. I write this with the heaviest heart I've ever had. I just lost Tony and now I lost another best friend. I can't get over this nightmare. I already miss you and our daily conversations. You died being a great friend. You went to be with Jose and help him when he called you. I tried so hard to tell you not to go out on that boat. It didn't feel right and we both knew it. I'm choking on tears writing this, you don't deserve this. We were just talking about life at the Marlins game and how precious it is. I can't believe you are gone. The pain I have is unexplainable. I feel guilty that I didn't do a better job of trying to convince you not get on that boat. You told me just so I know in case something happens. You had a gut feeling and that is killing me. I love you bro, you'll always be the little brother I never had. I'm in shock, I'm still waiting for you to call me or txt me. We were so excited to celebrate your birthday in Vegas. You were loved by many and I'll do my best to stay involved with them. Lauren and I will keep you in our prayers. Rest In Peace brother. Love you little bro Eddy Rivero @e_greeneyes #rip #mybrotherfromanothermother

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A report by TMZ
said Fernandez was spotted at American Social Bar & Kitchen about 90 minutes before the crash.

When asked for specifics about what happened inside — including whether alcohol was served to Jose or his friends — a rep for the restaurant would only say, “Jose Fernandez was a guest at American Social.”

Even if alcohol was involved to some extent — toxicology reports are still pending — it doesn’t make what happened any less of a tragedy. The Marlins’ pregame tribute to Fernandez on Monday and Dee Gordon’s reaction after a leadoff home run will be indelible images forever.

(Local 10 News, TMZ)

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