POINT LOMA, Calif., (KGTV)— The community said their final goodbyes, to Aileen and Aryana Pizarro, two victims of the fiery wrong-way crash on August 23, 2018. The tragedy struck a chord with so many, including celebrities like Dwayne Johnson and Alessia Cara, who sent the family personalized videos for their loss.
The ceremony began with a prayer and eulogies, followed by a performance. The Creative Media Performing Arts choir honored the life of one of their own, 12-year-old Aryana Pizarro. Her older brothers, Angelo and Dominic, are now without their lead singer in their band, “Pizarro Trio.” The youngest Pizzaro was known to be a remarkable singer, far beyond her years.
“She had the attitude, the voice, she had everything,” Anne Martin said. Martin had booked the "Pizarro Trio" many times over the years for her Long Beach Senior Luncheon.
Aryana’s gift stemmed from her mother, Aileen. Despite being an award-winning singer herself, she stayed out of the spotlight, shining it on her children instead. On August 23, the two were headed to Orange County, when their SUV was struck by a wrong way driver. The two were killed instantly. Friends and family remembered the young genius.
“A self-proclaimed brainiac, an honor roll student, Aryana loved helping anyone in any way she could,” Aryana’s eldest brother, Angelo said.
“Aryana, I love you, and being your friend has been an incredible honor. And I miss you more every day,” 8th grader, Elena said at the podium.
Many also shared their love for the family’s matriarch, Aileen.
“She is the inspiration for all the things she found amazing, and I was just there to deliver it,” Aileen Pizarro's longtime boyfriend said.
“My mom was selfless, and she put everyone and us before herself,” her second son, Dominic said.
The pastor announced that September 21, 2018, would be “Aryana and Aileen Pizarro Day,” as proclaimed by Mayor Kevin Faulconer in the City of San Diego.
