A tragic incident in Sacramento, California, has left a family in mourning after a one-year-old girl was killed and her father sustained serious injuries when they were struck by a driver suspected of being under the influence. The event occurred on Sunday, November 1, during a family visit to a cemetery to honour the Day of the Dead, a Mexican holiday celebrated by many across the region.
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The victim, identified as Janessa Milagro Mazur Diaz, and her father, Joshua Mazur, were involved in the collision around 4:45 p.m. on the 6700 block of 21st Avenue. They were transported to local hospitals for treatment following the accident, but tragically, Janessa was later pronounced deceased.
Sacramento Police apprehended 50-year-old Miguel Guzman at the scene, and he now faces serious legal repercussions, including felony charges for DUI causing great bodily injury and a felony hit-and-run. Guzman is currently being held without bail and is set to appear in court on November 6.
Reports suggest that Joshua Mazur, while injured, was placed in the intensive care unit at UC Davis Medical Center following the incident. Janessa’s mother, Jackie Patino-Diaz, shared details of the horrible event with the media, articulating the family’s devastation. They were specifically visiting the grave of Mazur’s grandmother, who had passed away in August, to honour her memory on this significant cultural day.
In an emotional account, Patino-Diaz recounted the moment, stating that she initially believed the car would stop. She remarked, “I just remember getting up, turning around and seeing the car coming this way. I thought it was going to stop and turn.” Instead, the vehicle mounted the grass and struck her daughter and partner.
Janessa was affectionately named “milagro,” meaning “miracle” in Spanish, following a difficult pregnancy that included two miscarriages and severe morning sickness. Reflecting on her time with Janessa, Patino-Diaz expressed: “She was my miracle baby… she was my best friend.” Each day featured simple joys such as enjoying breakfast together, watching her favourite movie, “Coco,” and sharing precious moments—a routine now forever altered.
In the wake of the tragedy, the family has initiated a GoFundMe campaign to assist with medical expenses for Mazur and funeral arrangements for Janessa. Their fundraising effort highlights the profound impact of this event, stating, “What was supposed to be a peaceful visit turned into a nightmare that has forever changed our family. We are heartbroken beyond words. No parent should ever have to experience the pain of losing their child.” As of the latest updates, the campaign has raised over £35,000 towards their target of £40,000.
The Sacramento Police Department is actively seeking any eyewitnesses to the collision to aid in the ongoing investigation. They implore anyone with information to reach out to their dispatch centre or local crime stoppers.
As this heart-wrenching story unfolds, it serves as a stark reminder of the devastating effects of impaired driving and the fragility of life, especially within families who are simply engaged in remembering loved ones.
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