The crash happened Saturday night near Kassarine Pass and Cherbourg Road, according to police.
Witnesses told authorities the victim was leaving a party and was walking near the intersection at the time.
Police believe a red GMC pickup truck hit the victim at high speed and then fled the scene.
HPD is conducting an investigation and urges anyone who sees a red GMC pickup truck with front-end or undercarriage damage to contact them.
Yahir Gonzalez said that the victim was his cousin.
"He was the most loving cousin. He always wanted to make you feel included," Gonzalez said. "He was always somebody that you could talk to."
Gonzalez said he still hasn't fully processed the news.
"You know that feeling when your heart drops to your stomach?" Gonzalez said. "It's just like you can't believe that because he's so young."
Gonzalez described his cousin as wise beyond his years, even at such a young age.
"He didn't get to graduate," Gonzalez said. "That just hurts me so much."
Now, Gonzalez and his family said they are holding on tightly to the memories they had.
"We would go on trips all around Texas," Gonzalez said. "Just go fishing or, you know, just do little fun things all the time. I have beautiful memories with him that will last a lifetime."