Framingham State Mourns Loss of Student Wilmani Castillo

The 22-year-old junior business major was killed in a car accident on February 9th.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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The Framingham State community was devastated to learn of the tragic passing of student Wilmani Josiah Castillo, a 22-year-old junior business management major, who was killed in a car accident in the early hours of February 9th. Castillo was known on campus as a warm-hearted and humorous student who always had a kind word and offer of support for his peers.

Why it matters

Castillo's death is a profound loss for the Framingham State community, where he was a valued member and first-generation student. His uplifting spirit and positive outlook made a lasting impact on those who knew him, and the university is working to honor his memory in the coming weeks.

The details

In an email to the campus, President Nancy Niemi wrote that Castillo resided on campus during his time at Framingham State. Students have expressed an outpouring of love and support on social media, sharing how Castillo's kind words and humor brightened their days. The university is planning a memorial opportunity for Castillo's family and friends to celebrate his life.

  • Castillo was killed in a car accident in the early hours of February 9, 2026.
  • Visiting hours for Castillo will be held at the Brady & Fallon Funeral Home in Jamaica Plain on Thursday, February 19, from 5-8 p.m.
  • A moment of silence for Castillo will be observed at the Framingham State men's basketball game in the Logan Gymnasium at 2 p.m. on Saturday, February 14.

The players

Wilmani Josiah Castillo

A 22-year-old junior business management major at Framingham State University who was known for his warm-hearted and humorous personality.

Nancy Niemi

The president of Framingham State University, who notified the campus community of Castillo's passing.

Meg Nowak Borrego

The Vice President for Student Affairs at Framingham State University, who is working with Castillo's friends and family to plan a memorial opportunity.

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What they’re saying

“He was a valued member of our campus community, and his loss is deeply felt by all who knew him - his family, friends, classmates, faculty, and staff.”

— Nancy Niemi, President, Framingham State University (Email to campus community)

“If you tell yourself that you can achieve - you will achieve. You will attract people around you who want to achieve. If you tell yourself that you can't - you will not. This life is what you make it.”

— Wilmani Josiah Castillo (Video reposted by students)

What’s next

The Dean of Students Office is planning to work with Castillo's friends and family to plan a memorial opportunity for his family to hear from his Framingham State friends.

The takeaway

Wilmani Castillo's passing is a profound loss for the Framingham State community, where he was known for his uplifting spirit and positive outlook that made a lasting impact on those around him. The university is coming together to honor his memory and support his loved ones during this difficult time.