Virginia Alaniz Obituary, Death; – A family from the South Side is grieving following the tragic death of a cherished grandmother, who was reportedly killed by a drunk driver just one day after her 80th birthday celebration.
Virginia Alaniz was traveling less than a mile from her residence when the multi-vehicle accident occurred around 4 p.m. on Sunday, near the intersection of S. Presa and the Loop 410 access road. At the time of the incident, Alaniz was seated in the front passenger seat of her daughter’s SUV, waiting at a red light, when a sedan, driven at high speed along the frontage road, collided with the rear of their vehicle. The force of the crash propelled their SUV into another car that was also halted at the light. Alaniz was declared dead at the scene, while two family members sustained injuries requiring hospitalization.
“One moment someone is here, and the next they are gone,” expressed her son-in-law, Jesse Arguello. “How does one explain this? How does one come to terms with it?”
The driver responsible for the accident was also transported to the hospital, where it was determined that he was under the influence of alcohol. He was later identified as Roman Deleon, 51, and was discharged from the hospital on Monday. Deleon faces charges of Intoxication Manslaughter and two counts of Intoxication Assault, with a total bond set at $300,000.
Alaniz’s death occurred just a day after a significant family gathering held in her honor for her 80th birthday. A mother of six, grandmother to 20, and great-grandmother to nine, she was remembered as a compassionate and selfless individual.
“She was someone who always prioritized others over herself,” remarked Arguello. “I cannot envision anyone more generous and loving.” During her birthday celebration on Saturday, Alaniz was the focal point, entertained by mariachis and enveloped in affection from her extended family.
“She truly enjoyed it. The photographs capture the joy she experienced, as well as the happiness of everyone around her,” Arguello noted. “She proudly wore the crown that my wife gifted her, exclaiming, ‘I’ve always wanted a crown.’ She donned the sash and relished being treated in such a special manner. I know she felt the love surrounding her.”
