Three sisters and their grandfather were tragically killed in a car crash while visiting their family.
Natalie Vazquez, 18, Katherine Reyes, 20, and Tiffany Garcia, 21, were driving in their motorhome in Guatemala to get to know their mum Maggie Vazquez's relatives.
Although Tiffany was technically the sisters' aunt, Maggie had raised the three as siblings, reports ABC7.
Advert
Maggie's father Luis Vazquez was also with them for the ride when tragedy struck and their vehicle was hit by a big rig on Sunday, 19 June.
Authorities confirmed a man has been arrested in Guatemala over the incident, which was reported to be a hit-and-run.
The victims' family are understandably devastated, with aunt Cindy Gonzalez telling the outlet: "They were really humble. Everybody who got close to them, they would bring peace."
Advert
Maggie has launched a GoFundMe page to help cover funeral expenses and have the bodies flown from the Central American country to the US.
She wrote: "Last night June 19, 2022 my daughters Natalie, Katherine, Tiffany and my father Luis Vázquez were taken from me in a car accident involving a semi-truck. I am truly devastated and mourning the loss of the ones closest to me being taken away so suddenly.
"My youngest daughter just finished high school and was on her way to university along with her other sisters and both had such promising futures.
Advert
"My daughters were loved by everyone, they treated everyone with respect as if they were their own family.
"I know they are in a better place and I am grateful to know my father is with them watching over them just how he has watched over me."
The mum explained that due to the incident being so sudden, she was not prepared to be hit with the financial costs.
"My daughters were visiting their grandparents (my parents) for the weekend and were struck by a semi truck and were apart of a hit-and-run (the person involved was eventually arrested)," she added.
Advert
"I need to pay for the funeral expenses of my three daughters and have them flown over from Guatemala to the US. If there's anything you can donate even if it's $1 it would be greatly appreciated and would help me so much during this horrific and sudden life altering incident."
So far, the campaign has raised over $41,000 at the time of writing – if you would like to contribute, head to the GoFundMe page here.
If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence contact Cruse Bereavement Care via their national helpline on 0808 808 1677