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DENVER (KDVR) — A beloved boxing coach was killed early Sunday in a hit-and-run crash in Denver, and police said they were investigating a suspect tied to the vehicle involved.

Joaquin Romero, 36, was on foot in the 600 block of South Eliot Street around 2 a.m. Sunday when the driver of a large SUV crashed into him, according to the Denver Police Department. Romero was pronounced dead at the scene.

Romero was a coach, competitor and community advocate at Topeira Boxing Club on West Alameda Avenue. There’s been an outpouring of support since his death. His brothers are going to make sure to keep his gym open and his memory alive.

“He was such a good representative of what good looks like,” Alejandro Romero said.

Joaquin built the gym, first at home in his garage, then at the location on Alameda. But those who go there said the gym is so much more than just a gym.

“It’s a community and everybody felt welcomed,” Alejandro said.

Denver police were looking for this vehicle involved in a deadly hit-and-run that killed Joaquin Romero on Feb. 6, 2022.

People of all ages come here, and Joaquin brought out the best in them.

“He had rules here. He was the boss. Kids would cry and look at their parents. He would say, ‘No look at me.’ He was teaching them discipline and just how to be good people,” Esteban Romero said.

They say they are heartbroken but humbled by the support.

“I want to say thank you to everyone for the support,” Alejandro said. “I want to make sure I still represent this place and his honor in a  positive manner. We love him.”

They are planning a vigil at the gym this Saturday at 11 a.m. The public is welcome to join and share pictures and stories.

The GoFundMe organizer said the boxing club paid for Romero’s funeral expenses and the fundraiser earned more than $35,000 in his honor.

DPD said a suspect vehicle and driver were located, and the driver was arrested Monday for an investigation of motor vehicle theft and vehicular eluding. Officers continue to investigate whether or not the suspect was involved in the deadly hit-and-run.

Anyone with information about the SUV or incident is asked to contact Metro Denver Crime Stoppers at 720-913-7867.