Fresno mother, daughter killed in Hwy 152 crash remembered for faith and kindness

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Key Takeaways
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• A mother and daughter, Samantha Xiongnhiathao and Gisselle Diaz, died in a Hwy 152 crash.
• CHP said the Honda struck the rear of a Freightliner that was moving about 15 mph.
• The family requested privacy, refused interviews, and launched a GoFundMe for funerals.

The family of Samantha Xiongnhiathao and Gisselle Diaz is grappling with “overwhelming pain and grief” after the mother and daughter were killed in a crash on Highway 152 on July 18.

In a statement released this week, the Fresno family described the sudden loss as devastating.

“This is an extremely difficult time for our family as we process the overwhelming pain and grief of losing our loving mother and our beautiful sister,” the statement said. “Their absence from this world will leave a void in our lives forever.

“As our family grieves this immense loss, we kindly request privacy and respect from the media. We also ask that people refrain from speculating and from making conclusions about the motor vehicle accident. Due to the ongoing investigation, we will not be participating in interviews or making further comments at this time.”

The family said information about memorial services for Xiongnhiathao and Diaz will be shared at a later date.

According to California Highway Patrol, the crash occurred just before 2 a.m. on eastbound Highway 152, east of Road 14 1/2.

Investigators said a Fresno man was driving a Freightliner at about 15 mph in the No. 2 lane because of engine problems. Xiongnhiathao was driving a black Honda Clarity east with Diaz as a passenger when, for reasons still under investigation, the Honda crashed into the rear of the Freightliner.

Xiongnhiathao and Diaz were pronounced dead at the scene. The crash remains under investigation by CHP.

In its statement, the family described Xiongnhiathao as a woman of deep faith whose life was “rooted in love and service to others.” She touched countless lives and was the “heart of our family.”

Diaz graduated as valedictorian of Fresno High in June with a 4.2 grade-point average.

“An extraordinary young woman with a bright future ahead of her. She was exceptionally intelligent,” the family wrote. “Beyond her accomplishments, she will be remembered for her unwavering faith, kind heart, and the light and warmth she brought into every room. She was beautiful inside and out, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing her loved her.”

The family has launched a fundraiser on GoFundMe to help cover funeral expenses.