Watch CBS News

Santa Ana Police Help Brighten Christmas For Grieving Family

SANTA ANA (CBSLA.com) — A Santa Ana family affected by a deadly hit-and-run accident in June had a Christmas celebration to remember, thanks to the generosity of the police department and other members of the community.

An alleged drunk driver killed 6-year-old Osmara Meza, critically injured her 7-year-old sister, Grecia, and left their mother, Eloisa, in a coma for weeks.

On Thursday, Grecia and Eloisa were surprised with a plethora of donated toys, gift cards, stuffed animals, and coloring books, in a get-together that included members of the Santa Ana Police Department, school police, local business owners, and the Orange County Fire Authority.

Eloisa, with the help of a translator, said she wished Osmara could have attended the celebration.

"She wanted to be a police officer, but a motor police officer, so she could make sure children were in their car seats," said Eloisa.

Grecia, who loved the gifts, had her sister on her mind.

"I love her a lot," she said.

The hit-and-run suspect, Jessicah Cowan, pleaded not guilty to vehicular manslaughter last July.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.