KRGV.com

HARLINGEN - Doctors didn't expect Mason Villegas to live past Monday. But the 6-month-old baby fought for three days.

Mason died Wednesday of injuries he suffered in a hit-and-run accident on Sunday in Harlingen. A suspected drunk driver on Thursday was charged with intoxication manslaughter in connection with the case.

Mason's family spent those days by his side, praying for a miracle.

"We kept saying, ‘fight,'" said Amanda Villarreal, Mason's grandmother.

"He took my baby," said Yvette Villegas, Mason's mother.

She was driving when the suspect rear-ended the family's car, police said. The child was in the back seat.

The child suffered severe trauma in the massive wreck. Doctors told the family Mason was brain dead.

"We knew... but when they tell it to you it hits you hard," Villarreal said.

She said they kept him on life support for several more hours.

"If you were in that room with me ... you couldn't help but cry," Villarreal said.

They hoped for a miracle, but knew it was time to say goodbye.

"As hard as it was, I whispered in his ear... if you have to go, go," Villarreal said.

That same day, Joe Montez III walked out of the same hospital and into the Cameron County jail. He is charged with intoxication manslaughter.

"We want justice for him," Villarreal said.

She said they will bury her grandson and then prepare for court.

The family said they are very grateful for all the prayers and support from the people in the Valley.