Girl, 12, Killed by Suspected Drunk Driver Just Days Before Her 13th Birthday

A 12-year-old girl was tragically killed after she was struck by a vehicle driven by a suspected drunk driver while crossing a road in California, just days before she was due to celebrate her 13th birthday.

Janessa Gonzalez was hit by a Ford Mustang at around 5:37 p.m. on Monday in Terra Bella, California. She suffered severe injuries and was rushed to hospital, but later died.

Police arrested Anthony Chavez-Valencia, 22, from nearby Porterville on suspicion of driving under the influence. Investigators said alcohol was suspected to have played a role in the devastating crash, although investigations into the circumstances were still ongoing.

Janessa Gonzalez Was Days Away From Her Birthday

The tragedy occurred just nine days before Janessa was due to turn 13 on September 10.

Instead of preparing to celebrate her birthday, her devastated family was suddenly faced with planning her funeral.

Janessa was reportedly crossing Avenue 95 near Terra Bella Elementary School when she was struck by the vehicle.

Her great-grandmother, Eleanor Pina, described the family’s grief following the sudden loss of the young girl.

Hundreds Attend Vigil for California Girl

The tragedy has deeply affected the Terra Bella community.

Around 200 people gathered for a vigil to honour Janessa as family members, friends and community members mourned her death.

Her relatives remembered her as a bright, funny and loving girl whose personality could light up a room.

Janessa was the second oldest of six children and was known for her caring nature and love for babies and younger children.

Family Remembers Janessa as a Fighter

Janessa’s family said she had overcome major challenges earlier in her life.

According to her relatives, doctors had once reportedly told her mother that she might never be able to walk or talk.

However, Janessa overcame those expectations and continued to grow into a lively and determined young girl.

Her family remembered her as loving, funny, sweet and always willing to help others.

Her death has left her siblings and relatives struggling to come to terms with the sudden loss.

Community Shocked by Tragic Accident

Terra Bella Unified School District Superintendent Nicolas Garcia said the tragedy had shaken the entire community.

The death of the young girl has prompted an outpouring of sympathy and support for her grieving family.

A fundraising campaign was also launched to help the family deal with unexpected expenses following Janessa’s death, with thousands of dollars reportedly raised.

The suspected drunk-driving case remains under investigation as authorities continue examining the circumstances surrounding the fatal crash.