Remembering a young couple killed in a car crash. Loved ones gathered to support their two small children who are now left without parents.
The crash happened just before 9:00 Saturday night at the intersection of Del Rey and North Avenue near Sanger.
At that location Sunday night, friends and family members of Paul Rosales and Rosa Lopez hovered over candles to help them heal.
"We’re still hurting emotionally. I just want to thank everybody out here for their support and for showing their love," said Roy Castillo, the victim's uncle.
Roy Castillo is the uncle of Paul, the 20-year old who was driving.
"My nephew was a very good man. Just starting getting his life going and tragedy like this had to happen," said Castillo.
Saturday night, Paul and his 19-year old girlfriend, Rosa, had just left their home in Del Rey to see a movie in Fresno. According to investigators, for some unknown reason, Paul failed to stop at the stop sign. A pickup truck traveling on North Avenue broadsided their mini-van, sending it bursting into flames. The man in the pickup sustained moderate injuries.
"He and Rosa will always live in our hearts; they'll always be with us no matter what and they're babies are always going to be taken care of," said Michelle Avila, the victim's aunt.
Their children, 2-year old Macia and 11-month old Aleena were buckled in back. They survived thanks to some good Samaritans who were passing by. They reached into the burning van and pulled the kids to safety.
"We don't know your names, but god knows who you are. We just want to thank you because you're angels from heaven," said Castillo.
A telephone pole now serves as a temporary tombstone. At its base is a memorial made of balloons, flowers, candles and a poster board.
With their mom and dad now gone, the children will stay with their grandparents.
"They lived with them here in their house in Del Rey, so it's where they're used to. They're very good people, very good people," said Avila.
A Bank account and fundraising car washes are being setup to help cover funeral costs.
Family members would really like to meet the people who rescued the children. If you're out there, please contact our station and we'll help connect you.