TERRA BELLA, Calif. — A California family is mourning the heartbreaking loss of a 12-year-old girl who was killed in a traffic crash just nine days before she was supposed to celebrate her 13th birthday.
Janessa Gonzalez of Terra Bella was trying to cross Avenue 95 near Terra Bella Elementary School shortly before 6 p.m. Monday when she was struck by a vehicle driven by 22-year-old Anthony Chavez-Valencia of Porterville, according to the California Highway Patrol.
Emergency responders rushed Janessa to Sierra View Medical Center following the crash. She later died from her injuries.
The circumstances surrounding the crash have left Janessa’s loved ones facing a devastating reality: a child who should have been preparing for her birthday is instead being mourned by her family and friends.
Driver Suspected of Being Under the Influence
According to the California Highway Patrol, officers believe Chavez-Valencia was under the influence of alcohol when the crash occurred.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to establish the circumstances that led to Janessa being struck.
The crash happened near an elementary school, adding another painful dimension to the tragedy for a family already trying to process the sudden death of a child.
Janessa’s family now faces not only the emotional pain of losing her but also the unexpected expenses that can follow such a devastating loss.
Family Remembers Janessa as Full of Life
Janessa’s aunt, Jaylenne Juarez, created a GoFundMe campaign to help the family manage expenses following the girl’s death. Juarez described the loss as a heartbreak that no family should ever have to experience.
“Our family experienced a heartbreak that no family should ever have to endure,” she wrote.
Janessa was the second oldest of six children, and her family said she had a personality that could light up a room.
“Janessa was full of life, personality, and so much love,” Juarez wrote.
Those who knew her are now remembering the small details that made her special, including her love for babies and the dolls she frequently carried around.
Her family said Janessa would care for her dolls as if they were real children, showing the nurturing personality they will forever associate with her.
Janessa Was a Fighter From the Beginning
Her family also remembered Janessa as someone who refused to let difficult circumstances define her. According to the fundraiser, doctors had once told her mother that Janessa would never walk or talk. But Janessa proved them wrong.
“But Janessa didn’t listen. She showed them, she fought harder than anyone could have imagined and did things they said she would never do,” Juarez wrote.
That determination is now one of the memories her family is holding onto as they grieve.
Instead of preparing for a milestone birthday, they are preparing to say goodbye to a girl who had overcome challenges and still had so much ahead of her.
Family Left Mourning a Future Cut Short
Janessa was supposed to turn 13 on September 10. Her family imagined celebrating another birthday, making memories and watching her grow into the young woman she was becoming.
Instead, those plans have been replaced by grief.
“She should have been getting ready to celebrate her 13th birthday, making memories with her family, and continuing to grow into the beautiful young woman she was meant to become,” Juarez wrote.
Her loved ones say they will miss everything from her voice and smile to her personality and simply having her around.
“There are so many little things about Janessa that our family will miss, the sound of her voice, her smile, her personality, and simply having her here with us.”
Family Seeks Support After Tragic Loss
The family is asking for financial assistance as it deals with the unexpected costs associated with Janessa’s death.
Juarez said the family is trying to focus on grieving while also handling the financial burden that came with losing a child so suddenly.
“No family is ever prepared to say goodbye to a child, especially so suddenly and so young,” she wrote.
People who cannot contribute financially are being asked to share the fundraiser and keep the family in their prayers. Janessa’s family ended their tribute with a message that reflects the depth of their loss.
“Rest peacefully, Janessa. You will forever be loved, forever be missed, and forever be a part of our family. Until we meet again.”
The California Highway Patrol has been contacted for additional information about the crash and investigation.
What would you say to Janessa’s family during this heartbreaking time? Share your thoughts and condolences in the comments.
